MEDITERRANEAN OLIVE BREAD

Mediterranean Olive Bread image

Provided by Vickie Parks

Time 2h45m

Number Of Ingredients 9

3 c bread flour
2 tsp active dry yeast
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
2/3 c chopped greek olives (like kalamata or other greek olives)
3 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/4 c warm water (110°f/45°c)
oil, for greasing pan
all-purpose flour, for dusting pan

Steps:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, olives, olive oil, and water until a soft dough forms. Turn dough onto a floured board, and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 to 10 minutes. Set aside, and let rise about 45 minutes, until it doubles in size.
2. Punch down. Knead well again, for about 5 to 10 minutes. Let rise for about 30 minutes, until it doubles in size
3. Shape the dough into a ball and place upside down in a bowl lined with a lint-free, well floured cloth. Let rise until double in size.
4. While the bread is rising for the third time, put a pan of water in the bottom of the oven. Preheat oven to 450°F (230C).
5. Gently turn loaf out onto a flat baking sheet pan that has been lightly oiled and dusted with all-purpose flour. Bake at 450° (230°C) for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 400°F (200°C), and bake for 30 minutes more, or until done.