Herb - Parmesan Bread

Submitted by Nolene Reynolds

2 cups warm water
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tbsp. soft butter
1 1/2 tbsp. dried Oregano leaves
2 pkg. active dry yeast
2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup + 1 tbps. grated Parmesan cheese
4 1/2 cups sifted flour

Sprinkle yeast over water in a large bowl. Let stand....then stir to dissolve yeast.
Add sugar, salt, butter, 1/2 cup cheese, oregano, 3 cups flour. Beat at low speed until blended. At medium speed until smooth (2 minutes).
With a wood spoon, gradually beat in the rest of flour.
Cover bowl with plastic wrap. Let rise 45 minutes - til light and bubbly.
Lightly grease large loaf pan or 1 1/2 - 2 quart casserole.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Stir down batter. Beat vigorously 1/2 minute. Turn into pan. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
Bake 55 minutes (less time if in glass pan).
Turn out on rack to cool or serve warm.

This is a Reynolds family summer barbecue favorite and always served with strawberry jam!