Focaccia Dough

Focaccia and soup make a very satisfying meal on any winter day. The soup will warm your body while the warmth of the baking focaccia will warm your kitchen.

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup water – heated to 105ºf – 115ºf
• 2 tsp active dry east
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 4 tbs olive oil – divided
• 3 ½ cups high-gluten flour
• pinch of salt

METHOD

1. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup heated water, yeast and sugar.
2. Whisk to mix well.
3. Cover with plastic wrap for at least 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
4. Stir in additional 1 1/2 cups of water and 3 tablespoons olive oil.
5. Stir in the flour and salt. You can use a mixer with a dough hook or, if you prefer, a large wooden spoon.
6. Mix dough until it is well blended and slightly sticky and shiny.
7. Remove and hand knead for a few minutes. If dough seems too moist add a little extra flour.
8. Transfer dough to a large bowl, coat with a little olive oil, cover and let sit for an hour.
9. Place dough on a lightly floured 10 X 15-inch baking sheet and gently press out with your fingers until flat.
10. Cover with a clean cloth and let sit for about 30 minutes.
11. Proceed with your favorite focaccia recipe.

NOTE: My family is happy with just some extra virgin olive oil and freshly ground black pepper sprinkled over the top of the freshly baked focaccia. A little freshly grated Romano is a nice addition too.

Buon Mangiata!