Focaccia

brought by Rachel Durazzani


1 cup warm water
1 1/2 tbs. yeast
1 tsp. water
Combine and allow to proof, about 5 minutes
Then add:
2 1/4 to 2 1/2 cups flour
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Start with only 2 cups of flour and then add the remaining if necessary to get a light, airy and soft dough.

Mix in mixer for 5-10 minutes allowing it to knead. Cover with a towel and let it double in size, about an hour. Punch it down and shape into a large ball. Spread into a pan, either in a circle about 12" in diameter or an oblong shape about a 1/2 inch thick. (Since I was making this into panini, I made to small rectangle shapes about 5x9 inches give or take. Don't roll it, as you want the air bubbles and you want it to stay light and airy.

Cover with a towel and let raise about an hour, with your fingertips, gently tap small indents all over the dough, then brush with olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. kosher salt.

Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 20-25 minutes.