Perfect White Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Soften yeast in 1/4 cup warm water; set aside until remaining hot water, shortening, salt and sugar cool to lukewarm.
2. 2
   Stir in 2 cups flour; beat well.
3. 3
   Add remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough.
4. 4
   Turn on floured surface and knead until satiny, 8 to 10 minutes.
5. 5
   Let sit 10 minutes and knead again a few minutes. Place in greased bowl, turning once to grease surface.
6. 6
   Let raise in warm place until double in bulk.
7. 7
   Punch down; raise again 1 hour until double.
8. 8
   Cut dough in two portions.
9. 9
   Place in small ball; set 10 minutes.
10. 10
    Place in loaves; let raise until double about 1 hour. Bake at 300° for 45 minutes.