White Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the warm water and 1 teaspoon sugar in a small bowl. Add yeast and stir to mix. Set aside until mixture becomes bubbly. In a large bowl, combine the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar, salt, milk, and melted shortening. Mix well.
2. 2
   Add 1 cup of the flour and the yeast mixture. Mix well. Add another cup of flour and whisk until the mixture is smooth. This can be done with an electric mixer. Continue adding the flour until dough is moderately stiff. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. The kneading time should be 8 to 10 minutes. Shape into a ball.
3. 3
   Place in a lightly oiled bowl. Turn once to oil all surfaces. Cover the bowl with a damp dish towel. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. This should take about an hour. Punch dough down. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into two portions.
4. 4
   Shape each into a ball.
5. 5
   Cover with the towel and let dough rest for 10 minutes. Grease two 9x5x3 inch loaf pans. Shape each portion of dough into a loaf. This can be done by simply pulling the dough into a loaf shape and tucking the edges under. Place the loaves into the prepared pans.
6. 6
   Cover with the damp towel.
7. 7
   Let rise in a warm place until the dough rises above the top of the pan.
8. 8
   This should take 40 to 50 minutes.