Easy Focaccia Bread

1 1/2 c warm water
2 tbs olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tbs yeast
3 c flour
1 c shredded Parmesan cheese (or Asagio or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese)

Topping:
1-2 Tbs olive oil
1 tbs (more or less) dried herbs or Italian herb/seasoning blend
1/2 c shredded Parmesan cheese (or other options)


Drizzle 1-2 tbs olive oil in the bottom of a 9 X 13 inch pan (if using glass, decrease oven temp to 350).

In a large bowl, soften the yeast in the warm water for 5 minutes.  Then add olive oil, salt, flour and cheese.  Stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until thoroughly combined and no dry spots remain.  The dough will be very wet and sticky.

Scrape dough into the middle of the prepared pan.  Grease your hands and press the dough into an even layer.  Gently press your fingertips into the top of the dough to create little dimples , drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with toppings, finishing with cheese.  (Or this can be done right after you let it rise.)

Cover the pan and let it rise until puffy, about an hour.  Preheat oven to 375, and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and baked through.  Let the bread cool for 10-15 minutes before removing from the pan (turn it out onto a rack or platter), break or cut into pieces and serve. 


From Mel's Kitchen Cafe