Flower Pot Walnut Bread

2 ounces fresh yeast
3 cups lukewarm water
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt
3 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 egg
6 to 7 cups all-purpose flour
4 new (5-6 inch diameter) clay pots*

* Purchase only clay pots made in the United States. Those manufactured outside the United States mix lead with the clay.

Pour water into a bowl and add yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let stand for a few minutes. Add remaining sugar, salt, butter and flour as needed. Knead well. Put into an oiled bowl, cover and let rise for about 2 hours.

Knead the dough again, adding walnuts. Grease the flower pots. Divide dough into 4 equal parts, roll each into a ball and place them in flower pots. Let rise for about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

Make a cut across the surface of the dough. Whisk the egg lightly and brush the dough. Bake for about 40 minutes.