Herb Foccaccia

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Combine the yeast with a quarter cup of the water. Cover and leave until doubled in volume. If the mixture does not rise, throw it away and use a fresh package of yeast.

2. Step 2

   By hand: Combine the flour and salt and place the mixture on a smooth work surface. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, two tablespoons olive oil and remaining water. Gradually work the flour into the liquid, using a wooden spoon. When the dough is too stiff to work with the spoon, knead until smooth and shiny, about eight to 10 minutes. Add more flour if the dough gets too sticky.

3. Step 3

   In a food processor: Fit the bowl with a steel blade and put the flour, salt, olive oil, yeast mixture and remaining water into the bowl. Process until the dough forms a smooth ball, about 20 seconds. Place the dough on a smooth surface and knead for a couple of minutes, adding more flour if the dough is too sticky.

4. Step 4

   Put the dough in an oiled mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for an hour in a warm place until doubled in size. Punch down and knead into a smooth ball. Let rise again for one more hour.

5. Step 5

   Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

6. Step 6

   Knead the herbs into the dough. Press the dough out onto a floured pizza pan (9-by-12-inch rectangular or 15-inch circular) and let rise for 20 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Sprinkle with remaining two tablespoons olive oil and salt and bake for 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden.