| | | Wolfgang’s Focaccia Serving Size: Two 9x5x3-inch loaves Ingredients 1 packet dry yeast 1¾ cups water 1 tablespoon honey 1½ pounds bread flour 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon kosher salt Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing Toppings: Fresh ground black pepper Fresh thyme leaves, minced Directions Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Brush a 15x11-inch baking tray with olive oil. Set aside. Using the mixer bowl, combine the yeast, 4 ounces of water and honey. Stir together until yeast dissolves into the water. Add 2 ounces of flour and mix to make a sponge. Let rise in a warm place until double. Gradually add the remaining flour, water, olive oil and salt. Using the dough hook attachment, mix at medium speed to make a soft dough. Beat for 2 minutes. Turn off machine, scrape sides of bowl and allow dough to relax for 10 minutes. Turn on mixer and continue to mix the dough for another 5 minutes at medium speed. The dough will become velvety and elastic. Transfer dough onto prepared baking tray, and tretch the dough to fill the tray. Cover loosely with clean kitchen towel and allow to rise at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Uncover the dough and stretch to cover the entire baking tray. Brush with olive oil and dimple with fingertips. Sprinkle with kosher salt, pepper and thyme. Let rise for 15 minutes. Bake for 10 minutes, turn around and bake another 6 to 8 minutes, until golden brown and well-risen. |
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