Hard-dough Bread

Sponge

 * 1½ cups cold water
 * 1 oz yeast
 * 2 tsp granulated sugar
 * pinch salt
 * 1 lb all-purpose flour

Dough

 * 1½ cups cold water
 * 1 oz powdered milk
 * 2 tsp granulated sugar
 * ½ tsp salt
 * 2 oz soft margarine
 * 1 lb all-purpose flour

Sponge

 * 1) Pour 1¼ cups of cold water into a bowl.
 * 2) Dissolve the yeast in the remaining ¼ cup water, then add to bowl.
 * 3) Stir in the sugar and salt.
 * 4) Gradually add the flour.
 * 5) Cover and let it stand overnight before adding to dough.

Dough

 * 1) Add the milk, sugar, salt and margarine to the water in a bowl.
 * 2) Gradually add flour, mixing all the time.
 * 3) Tear the sponge into small pieces and add to the dough mixture.
 * 4) Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
 * 5) Shape as desired and let rise 30 to 40 minutes.
 * 6) Bake in an oven preheated to 375 °F until the loaves sound hollow when tapped.