Black Olive Focaccia

Focaccia is a flat Italian bread with herbs and olives. I absolutely adore it because it tastes just like garlic bread and is filled with loads of flavours. This is a perfect accompaniment to pasta!

Smells AMAZING!!!💗

Baking Time: 30 minutes

Resting time: 1 hr 30 minutes

Total time: 2.5-3 hours

You will need:

• 2 cups of plain flour
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 3/4 cup of lukewarm water
• 1 tbsp of olive oil
• 1/3 cup of black olives
• 2-3 tbsp of mixed herbs

Procedure:

1. In a warm mixing bowl, sift the flour, salt and yeast. Next and the warm water. Make sure that the water is just warm to the touch. If the water is too hot, it will kill the yeast and your bread won't be light and airy.

2. As it forms into a dough, lightly flour the surface and begin to knead. Now you can add your herbs: Thyme, parsley etc.

3. Knead for 10 minutes max and transfer into a warm bowl which is oiled. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside in a warm place for at least 45 minutes to rise.

4. After it rises to double its original size, punch it down to knock out the air and knead it again for 1 minute. Add in the olives and continue kneading it.

5. Next, line your baking tray with parchment paper and spread some olive oil to prevent it from sticking. Roll the dough into a ball and place on the baking tray. Flatten it just a little bit.

6. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle some salt crystals on top. Now, let it rest again for 30-45 minutes.

7. When the dough rises again, spread some more olive oil and make a few holes with your finger. Place it in the oven at 200`C or 400`F for 20-30 minutes, until the top is a light brown colour.

8. Remove from the oven and place a damp cloth on top to soften the hard top of the focaccia bread.

SERVE WHEN WARM!