Instructions: Here is a recipe out of Betty Cocker

dissolve 1 pkg active dry yeast in 1/2 cup warm water.Stir in 2 cups warm water,2 cups all purpose flour,and 1 tbsp sugar or honey.Beat till smooth.Cover bowl with cheesecloth.Let stand at room temp for 5-10 days or till mixture has a fermented aroma,stirring 2-3 times a day. To store,transfer sourdough started to a jar.Cover with cheesecloth and refrigerate.Do Not cover jar tightly with a metal lid. To use started,bring desired amount to room temp.Replenish starter after each useby stirring 3/4 cup flour,3/4 cup water,and 1 tsp sugar or honey into remaining starter.Cover and let stand a t room temp at least 1 day or till bubbly.Refrigerate for later use.

Sourdough bread: Bring sourdough starter to room temp.Combine 2 1/2 cups of flour adn the yeast.Heat and stir water,sugar,margarine,and 1 tsp salt just till warm and marg almost melts.Add to flour mix.Add sourdough starter.Beat with elecxtric mixer on low for 30 seconds.Beat on high 3 min.Combine 2 1/2 cups flour and the soda.Add to yeast mix.Stir till combined.Using a spoon,stir in as much remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough(6-8 minutes total).Shape into a ball.Place in a greased bowl;turn once.cover and let rise in a warm place till double.(45-60 min).

Punch dough down.Turn out onto a lightly floured surface.Divide in 1/2.Cover and let rest 10 min.Shape into 2 round loaves.Place on a greased baking sheet.Flatten each slightly to a 6" diameter.with a sharp knife,make crisscrosses across the tops of loaves.Cover and let rise till double.Bake in 375 oven for 30 - 35 minutes.Cover the last 10 minutes if necessary.

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