Helen'S Italian Bread - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 envelopes active dry yeast
2/3 c. warm water
8 to 9 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. shortening
2 1/2 c. water
1 egg, beaten with 1 Tbsp. water

Preparation

Sprinkle yeast over 2/3 cup warm water and stir to dissolve yeast, then mix in 6 cups flour, a little at a time; work in enough flour to form a fairly stiff dough.
Knead on a lightly floured board until elastic and smooth, about 8 to 10 minutes. Shape into a ball; place in a large greased bowl, turning to grease all over.