Cuban Bread

• (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast↗1
• cups lukewarm water2
• tablespoons salt↗1 1⁄4
• tablespoon sugar↗1
• cups sifted flour6 -7

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Dissolve the yeast in the water and add the salt and sugar, stirring thoroughly.

2. 2

   Add flour, one cup at a time, beating it with a wooden spoon.

3. 3

   You can also use the dough hook on an electric mixer at low speed.

4. 4

   Add enough flour to make a fairly stiff dough.

5. 5

   Shape dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl and grease the top.

6. 6

   Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk.

7. 7

   Turn dough out onto a lightly floured board and shape into two round Italian style loaves.

8. 8

   Arrange onto a baking sheet, heavily sprinkled with cornmeal and allow to rise for 5 minutes.

9. 9

   Slash the tops of the loaves in 2 or 3 places with a knife or scissors.

10. 10

    Brush the loaves with water and place them into a cold oven.

11. 11

    Set the oven control at 400° and place a pan of boiling water on the bottom of the oven.

12. 12

    Bake loaves until they are crusty and done for about 40 to 45 minutes.