Soda Crackers

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Whisk together in a medium bowl: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 envelope (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar

2. Step 2.

   Combine in a small bowl: ⅔ cup hot water; ½ teaspoon honey; 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening

3. Step 3.

   Add the liquid to the dry ingredients and beat with a wooden spoon until smooth. If the dough is sticky, beat in a little more flour. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. (Or mix and knead the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.) Place the dough in a greased bowl and turn once to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight.

4. Step 4.

   Preheat the oven to 425°F. Grease a large baking sheet. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 18 × 6-inch rectangle. Fold into thirds, as if folding a business letter, and roll out again into a rectangle of the same size. Loosely roll the dough around the rolling pin and transfer to the baking sheet. Prick the dough all over with a fork and cut into 1-inch squares. Sprinkle with: Salt; (Poppy, sesame, or caraway seeds)

5. Step 5.

   Bake until crisp and browned, 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the dough. Transfer to wire racks to cool.