Shepherd'S Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Combine water, butter, sugar and salt.
2. 2
   Stir until butter melts; let cool to warm.
3. 3
   Stir in yeast, cover and set in a warm place until bubbly.
4. 4
   Add 5 cups of flour and beat with a wooden spoon to form a thick batter.
5. 5
   Stir in enough of the remaining flour (about 3 1/2 cups) to form a stiff dough.
6. 6
   Knead until smooth, about 10 minutes, add flour as needed.
7. 7
   Place dough in Dutch oven (well greased) and cover.
8. 8
   Set in a warm place to rise until doubled.
9. 9
   Punch down and knead on a floured board.
10. 10
    Return to Dutch oven and let rise until dough pushes up on the lid about 1/2 inch.
11. 11
    Bake covered with lid, in a 375°F oven for 12 minutes.
12. 12
    Remove lid and bake for 30-35 minutes or until loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.