Sourdough Bread

Directions

1. Dissolve 1 package yeast in hot water. Stir in 2 1/2 c. flour, with the salt, sugar and the starter. Combine 2 1/2 c. flour and the baking soda; stir into starter mix. Stir in as much of 1/2 to 1 c. flour as you can mix with a spoon. On a lightly floured surface, knead in sufficient of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough which is smooth and elastic (6 to 8 min). Shape into a ball in a greased bowl; turn over once. Cover and let rise in a hot place till doubled (1 to 1 1/2 hrs). Punch down, divide in half. Cover; let rest 10 min. Shape each half into a 6 inch round or possibly a 9 x 4 inch loaf on a greased baking sheet. With a sharp knife make criss cross slashes on top. Cover; let rise till almost double (about 1 hour). Bake at 400 degrees for 35 to 40 min. Cold.