Cocoa Rye Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve sugar in 1/2 cup warm water and sprinkle yeast over, and allow to stand 10 minutes til yeast rises. Stir.
2. 2
   Add molasses, salt and shortening to the 2 1/2 cups lukewarm water.
3. 3
   Stir the rye flour and cocoa together, then beat into the molasses mixture.
4. 4
   Add the dissolved yeast and 1 cup of white flour and beat til dough is smooth.
5. 5
   Keep adding flour until dough is firm enough to turn onto a floured surface.
6. 6
   Knead the rest of the flour into it until dough is smooth and elastic.
7. 7
   Place in a greased bowl, cover and allow to rise in a warm place free from drafts. (approx 2 hours).
8. 8
   Punch dough down.
9. 9
   Shape into 2 or 3 loaves and place in well greased loaf pans.
10. 10
    Allow to rise again 1 hour.
11. 11
    Bake 375F 35-40 minutes.
12. 12
    (if you want, add the raisins and walnuts with the flour for a delicious tea bread).