DAILY RECIPE FEBUARY 13TH: CRUSTY ITALIAN BREAD

Crusty Italian Bread



1 1/3 cups water
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp shortening
3 2/3 cups bread flour
1 1/4 tsp bread machine yeast

1. Measure ingredients into the baking pan ( the manufacturer may recommend the order ). Insert the pan into the oven chamber and select the Dough Cycle.

2. Remove and place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Cover it with a large bowel and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes.

3. Divide the dough in half ( if the dough is sticky at this stage, flour your hands and add a small amount of flour to the board; too much flour, however, can result in a tough, heavy texture ). Form each half into a loaf measuring 10 by 4 by 2 inches. Flatten the top slightly.

4.Place the formed loaves onto a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal. Cover and let rise in a warm and draft-free place for 30 to 45 minutes, or until they double in volume. Bake at 400 degrees F ( 200 degrees C ) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the loaves sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.