Herb and Cheese Focaccia Bread

Herb & Cheese Focaccia Bread

Adapted from Taste of Home, (from wonintheoven.blogspot.com)

• 2 1/4 tsp. or one packet of active dry yeast (not quick rise) (I actually used SAF yeast (instant), just used almost 2 t., and it worked fine- just mix it into the dry ingredients)
• 1 cup warm water (110-115 F)
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. dried basil
• 1/2 tsp. dried parsley
• Dash of Pepper
• 2 to 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water for 5 minutes.In the meantime mix salt, sugar, garlic powder, oregano, basil, parsley, and pepper in a little bowl.
2. After yeast is dissolved, add the olive oil, spice mixture, and 1 1/2 cups of the flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).
3. Knead with dough hook for about 6-8 minutes OR alternatively turn onto floured surface and knead by hand until smooth and elastic. 
4. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled about 1 hour.Punch dough down. Cover and let rest 10 minutes. Shape into a 13x9 inch rectangle. Place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
5.  Preheat oven to 400 F.Brush with oil; sprinkle with cheeses and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire rack.

This made great sandwiches!  A nice change from bread or rolls, and not that hard to make, I promise.  You just have to work it into your meal plan timing-wise.