French Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Combine 2 cups flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in large mixing bowl. Set aside.
2. 2
   Combine water and shortening in a small saucepan, and cook until very warm (120° to 130°); add to flour mixture. Blend mixture at low speed of an electric mixer until dry ingredients are moistened. Beat 3 minutes at medium speed. Stir in 3 1/2 cups flour to make a soft dough.
3. 3
   Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic, working in 1/2 cup flour, if needed.
4. 4
   Shape dough into a ball; place in a greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85°), free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.
5. 5
   Punch dough down; divide in half. Cover and let rest 5 minutes. Shape each half into an 18- x 3-inch loaf. Place loaves 4 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet.
6. 6
   Cut diagonal slashes, 1 1/2 inches apart and 1/4-inch deep, across top of each loaf. Cover and repeat rising procedure 35 minutes or until doubled in bulk. Bake at 425° for 15 minutes; reduce heat to 350°, and bake 25 minutes or until loaves sound hollow when tapped.
7. 7
   Remove baking sheet from oven; brush each loaf lightly with beaten egg white. Return bread to oven 2 minutes. Remove bread from baking sheet immediately; cool on wire racks.