EASY ITALIAN FOCACCIA BREAD FOR A CROWD

Easy Italian Focaccia Bread for a Crowd image

Provided by Cheryl Jacobs

Time 2h25m

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 1/2 c bread flour
1 1/2 c unbleached white flour
2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 1/2 Tbsp active dry yeast (2pkgs)
1 1/3 c water, warm
3 Tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
2 Tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or basil
2 Tbsp freshly grated parmesan

Steps:

1. DO NOT PREHEAT OVEN. In a large stoneware bowl, stir flours and salt. Make a well in the center, sprinkle sugar and yeast into well. Carefully pour water into well & let stand till yeast begins to act, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour 2 tablespoons oil into the well. With a wooden spoon stir the mixture in center of bowl, gradually widening the circle of stirring to take in all of the flour on the sides. Turn out on floured surface and knead just till smooth. Divide in half. Pour 1/2 teaspoon of oil into two clean bowls, place dough in bowls, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise until doubled.
3. Punch dough down. Use 1 teaspoon oil to coat a baking sheet and place dough on the center. Gently press the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Pour 1 1/2 teaspoons oil over the top of the dough. Use the handle end of a wooden spoon or your fingers to "dimple" the dough at 1 1/2 inch intervals. Sprinkle with rosemary or basil and then cheese. Place in a COLD oven on center shelf. Place a flat pan of very hot water on the shelf below the bread. Let rise until doubled.
4. Turn on oven to 375° and bake 20-25 minutes or until browned on top. Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack. Makes 2 very large loaves