To make them, you will need:
2 packages of active dry yeast {or 4 and 1/2 tsp. if you don't have the envelopes}
1 cup warm water {110-115 degrees}
1 cup warm milk {110-115 degrees}
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. salt
6 cups all-purpose flour
Cornmeal
1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. {about 5 mins}
2. Add the milk, shortening, sugar, eggs, salt, and 2 cups of flour; beat until smooth.
3. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
4. Turn onto a floured suface; knead until smooth and elastic. {about 6-8 mins}
5. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top.
6. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size. {about 1 hr}
7. After raising, punch down dough.
8. Turn onto a lightly floured surface.
9. Divide in to eight pieces; shape each into a ball.
10. Grease two baking sheets and sprinkle with cornmeal.
11. Place four balls 3 in. apart on each prepared pan.
12. Cover and let rise until doubled. {about 30 mins}
13. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 mins or until golden brown.
14. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.
To make your bread ball into a bread bowl, cute a thin slice off the top of the bread. Hollow out the inside, leaving a 1/4 in. shell. You can discard the removed bread or use it to dip in your soup, chili, chowder, or stew.
Not only are they delicious, but kids enjoy them too! {at least I did as a kid}
Enjoy!
-Sarah