Focaccia Bread

Yummy, easy bread recipe!!






2 3/4 c flour

1 t salt

1 t sugar

1 T active dry yeast

1 t garlic powder

1 t dried oregano

1 t dried thyme

1/2 t dried basil

pinch ground black pepper

1 T vegetable oil

1 c water

2 T olive oil

1 T grated Parmesan cheese

1 c mozzarella



In a large bowl, stir together the first eight ingredients. Mix in the vegetable oil and water.



When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead until smooth and elastic. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl, and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 20 minutes.



Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Punch dough down; placed on greased baking sheet. Pat into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle. Brush top with olive oil. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mozarella cheese.



Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm.



** My tips/variations - I only use 1/2 t of oregano because we're not overly fond of it. I use my kitchen aid mixer to do the kneading (don't want to burn a calorie if I don't have to!). I usually prepare a mixture of olive oil and spices (kosher salt, oregano, pepper and basil are what we like) to dip the bread into. Good stuff!! I've also discovered that putting my bread in the oven with the light on (only - no heat!!) makes it rise very nicely.