No Need to Knead Bread

An accidental creation one day, this is what happens when your 4 year old decides she is going to help mommy bake... But the results are fabulous. I make this to go with soups and chili, or with a large dinner as rolls. The kids also like it when it has started to dried out a bit as bread pudding. The time includes both risings, mixing it up takes about 15 minutes.

• Ready In: 3 hrs 5 mins
• Yields: 2 loaves

Ingredients

• 1 (2 1/4teaspoon) package  yeast
• 2  cups  lukewarm water
• 4  cups all-purpose flour
• 1  tablespoon sugar
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1 -2  tablespoon dried herbs (optional)

Directions

1. Mix yeast, a pinch of sugar, and 1/2 a cup of the water in a bowl, allow to proof for at least 10 minutes.
2. Combine flour, sugar and salt in a large bowl, add herbs if using and mix through.
3. Add yeast mixture, and remaining water.
4. Mix well dough should be sticky and soft, if it isn't add a little more water.
5. Cover dough with a cloth, and allow to rise until double in bulk, about 90 minutes Punch down.
6. Divide into 2, and place in greased loaf pans.
7. Allow to rise uncovered until doubled in bulk again.
8. Place in a cold oven, and turn begin heating to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Bake for 25-40 minutes or until top is crusty and begin to turn golden brown.
10. Cool and serve.