HARDO BREAD RECIPES

Steps:

• "REMEMBER: The more flour the denser the dough REMEMBER: 4 oz Shortening can be used instead of margarine or butter giving the bread a more chewier taste Step 0: If using the Active Dry yeast, first dissolve it in a bowl of luke warm water with 1/2-1 tablespoon of sugar (some like to use a bit of honey) and allow to Proof. (If the yeast doesn't begin to produce bubbles and foam after 15-20 minutes, its probably not fresh and best to make a trip to buy more) Step 1: Mix together the sugar, salt and flour if the yeast is Instant Dry Yeast add it as well. Step 2: Using your finger tips (or a dough blender) rub the butter into the dry mixture if using shortening cut into the mixture with a knife Step 3: If using the Active Dry Yeast Gradually pour into the flour mixture while mixing. Else Gradually add the cold water and mix well. Step 4: Place dough on a lightly floured board and knead for 10-20 minutes or until dough becomes elastic. The dough should be smooth and not sticking to your fingers, if it is very sticky do not add additional flour instead add a bit of grease to the surface or the bowl you are mixing it into prevent stickiness Step 5: Place dough in a large greased bowl, making sure to add grease to the surface of the dough as well, either by rotating it in the bowl or by greasing it Step 6: Cover the bowl with some plastic wrap or a damp towel. Place the bowl in a warm area and allow to ferment for roughly 45 minutes Step 7: Punch/Slap down the dough in order to get rid of excess carbon dioxide gas, while slowly forming it in a rectangular shape. A rolling pin can be used as well to help in rolling the dough out into a rectangular shape. Step 8: Start at one of the shorter ends and begin to roll up the dough as tightly as possible, ensuring to pinch and tuck the sides to create a log shape. Step 9: Place in a greased loaf pan It is okay to fit it to whatever size pan that you have. Step 10: Cover the pan and allow to proof proof for 35-60 minutes . Step 10+: (Optional) Brush with egg wash. (a mixture of 1 egg and 2 tablespoons water or milk) This will give the top of the bread a browner color Step 11: Place in a pre-heated oven and bake at 350°F or 180°C, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread eases away from the sides of pan. Step 11+: (Optional) Some like to rub butter over the bread for a buttery taste and soften the top Step 12: Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes Step 12+: (Optional) Recommended to wait 30 minutes before cutting the bread Step 14: Enjoy"