WHITE BREAD (SPONGE METHOD)

• 1 cake compressed yeast or 1 package dry granular yeast
• 1 cup scalded water or potato water, cooled to warm temperature
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup scalded milk
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 4 cups flour

TO MAKE THE SPONGE: Dissolve the yeast in warm water with 1 teaspoon sugar, beat in 2 cups flour to make smooth batter. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. To make the dough, pour the milk over the shortening, salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Cool to lukewarm, add to the sponge. Stir in remaining 4 cups flour gradually. Toss dough on lightly floured board and knead until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, let rise. Proceed as in "General Rules" above.