Sheepherder'S Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Combine water, butter, sugar and salt.
2. 2
   Stir until butter melts.
3. 3
   Cool to 110°.
4. 4
   Stir in yeast.
5. 5
   Set until bubbly (15 minutes) in warm place.
6. 6
   Beat in 5 cups of the flour to make a thick batter.
7. 7
   Stir in 3 1/2 cups flour to make stiff dough. Knead until smooth and satiny, 10 to 20 minutes.
8. 8
   Put in greased bowl until doubled (1 to 1 1/2 hours).
9. 9
   Punch down and knead to form a smooth ball.
10. 10
    Cover inside of Dutch oven with foil.
11. 11
    Grease it and the lid.
12. 12
    Place dough in pot and cover.
13. 13
    Let rise 1 hour until lid rises 1/2 inch.
14. 14
    Bake, covered, in a 375° oven for 12 minutes.
15. 15
    Remove lid and bake 30 to 35 minutes.
16. 16
    Sounds hollow.