Sundried Tomato And Herb Focaccia Alla Novese Recipe

Directions:

1. Combine the flour, salt, 3 tbsp of the oil, tomatoes and 1 tbsp of the Italian seasoning in a large mixing bowl until oil is well dispersed and mixture is crumbly-looking.
2. In a small bowl or cup, combine yeast and water, let stand 10 minutes, until foamy.
3. Stir yeast mixture into the flour, beating well to thoroughly hydrate the dough.
4. Place into a lightly greased bowl, cover and allow to rise 1 hour.
5. Deflate the dough gently, then divide in half.
6. Stretch and press into two flattened 8-9 inch rounds. They don't have to be perfect!
7. Use your fingertips to dimple the surface of each round, then brush the surfaces of the dough with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle with last tbsp of Italian seasoning. Add Kosher salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cover and allow to rise 45 minutes further.
9. Preheat oven to 425F, place an oven rack on the lowest tier of the oven.
10. Bake loaves 30 minutes, until golden all over and hollow sounding when tapped. Remove to wire racks immediately and cool.
11. These can be served warm, or room temperature. Wrap in heavy foil and freeze for storage.