Dissolve brown sugar in lukewarm water and sprinkle yeast over it. Let it stand for 10 minutes.

In a mixing bowl take whole wheat flour and salt. Add shortening and yeast mixture and knead into a soft dough – about 7-8 minutes. If required, add a little water.

Dab a little oil on the surface of the dough and place in greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 2 hours. The dough will double in size.

Punch down the dough with your fist and lightly knead it for 1-2 minutes.

Shape the kneaded dough into a loaf and place in a greased loaf tin. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until double in size – about 45 minutes.

Pre heat oven to 200C/390F.

Brush the dough with milk, sprinkle sesame seeds and bake for about 30 minutes at 200C.

Remove and place side down on a cooling rack.