Combine the yeast, warm water, and sugar in a large bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until it's nice and foamy.

To the yeast mixture add 1 cup of the flour, all the salt and all the melted butter. Stir to combine.

Stir in 2-3 more cups of flour, a half cup at a time until the dough comes together nicely. It should not be sticky anymore. Then knead 7-10 minutes.

After kneading, let it rise for 20 minutes. I set it underneath a greased casserole dish on my counter -- this works really well!

After it has risen, shape it into a loaf (long or short, you decide). Put the loaves on a greased baking sheet or jelly roll pan, cover with a wet dishtowel, and let it sit for 10 minutes.

Score the top, brush with an egg wash (one egg beaten with a smidge of water) if you want it to be shiny, and bake for 20 minutes at 450. (Some folks have said 425 is better but my oven is 450.)