French Bread

I'm dedicating this post to my Royal Crest girls. Had such a fun lunch today and the bread recipe was requested. It's way quick (as far as bread goes) and can be mixed in a mixer -- even the kitchenaid if you don't have a bigger one. Just finish kneading by hand when it starts to climb the arm of the attatchment. you can do it Stacey!!! ;)

3 c. warm water
2 T. Yeast
1/2 t. sugar
let sit for a few minutes 'til foamy, then add:
1/4 c. shortning
1/8 c. sugar
1 T. salt
7-8 c. flour (I use 3 (or so) c. whole wheat flour)
Knead 10 min. Let raise 10 min. covered.
Roll out in a rectangle ***and roll up (like cinnamon rolls) to get all the air bubbles out. Place on greased baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg white and slash the top with a sharp knife. Can sprinkle with sesame/poppy seeds.
Let loaves rise 20 min, bake at 350 for 35 min. - makes 2 large loaves (or 3 small)

***For cinnamon french bread just sprinkle a little cinnamon and sugar here. This also makes yummy french toast with day-old bread.