Instructions: Start by making the sponge, by dissolving the yeast in the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon.

Place 1/2 cup of the flour in a large bowl, add the dissolved yeast and mix with a wooden spoon till the flour is incorporated. Sprinkle the additional tablespoon of flour over the mixture, cover the bowl with a towel and place in a warm spot for 1 hour, allowing it to double in size.

Place the 5 cups of flour in a mound on a board, making a well in the center. In the well, place the sponge after 1 hour, with a pinch of salt and 1/2 cup of the warm water. Using a wooden spoon, carefully mix together all the ingredients, adding the remaining water. Start mixing with your hands, kneading the dough on the board for about 15 minutes, making a smooth homogenous dough. Give the dough the shape you desire, either a long or round shape, cover with a towel, place in a warm spot for one hour, allowing to double in size.

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Place the dough in an oven, baking the bread for 55 minutes. When the bread is finished, remove from the oven and place it on a pasta board, standing on one of its sides, don=t allow the bread to sit flat. The bread should be allowed to cool for at least 2 hours.

Yield: 1 loaf

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.