My 200th Post: Dad's Bread

Those who know me realize the title of this post is an impossibility. More so, that my sister gave me the recipe.

See, I never knew my father, nor do I have any siblings. I tell you this only as background for this:

About a month ago, I received an email from a woman who said we might be related. And she was right - she's my half sister. Since we connected, she has taken over my thoughts and changed my world. So when she emailed me this recipe yesterday, I knew I had to make it.

That my father liked to bake bread is a bittersweet discovery. I've been making bread for about eight months, and I've loved it. How much more special it is as I feel the connection with that man who is half of me yet unknown to me.

This is my father's recipe, although I tinkered with it a little, replacing some of the white flour with white whole wheat. Otherwise, this is the recipe he Dad used to make. I'm sure I'll hear more about it, and him, when I visit my sister at the end of this month. Until then, I savor forming the words my sister...my Dad.

Dad's Bread - makes 4 8"x4" loaves (mine are a bit stubby as I used 9x5 pans)

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

2 ½ cups lukewarm water

½ cup sugar

1 package active dry yeast

To the above add 2 C flour, mix then slowly add another 2 cups flour.  Add 1 stick of butter, melted and cooled.  Mix. Add 2 more cups of flour then add 3 eggs one at a time, mixing after each.  Add 2 cups flour and mix thoroughly.

Flour hands, counter surface, and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.  Lightly grease a large bowl and transfer dough to the bowl.  Cover with a towel and let rise till doubled.  Remove the towel, punch down and knead.  Cut into 4 equal portions.  Spray 4 8x4 loaf pans with non-stick spray.  Place dough in pans and cover with a towel.  Let rise till doubled.  Remove towel and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

*****
How was it? I cautiously tasted the first piece while still slightly warm. I wanted to like it because of its provenance, but I was prepared for it not being my thing. I needn't have worried. It was light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, a beautiful enriched loaf.  And yes, there were a few tears for what wasn't and now can never be. But I have a sister, and that makes everything all right.