Fougasse

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the warm water, yeast, and honey. Let stand for 10 minutes, until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead in the olives and rosemary. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch (20-cm) circle, about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick.
6. Using a sharp knife, make 4 cuts into each circle, about 1/4 inch (6mm) deep, to form a star shape. Place the circles on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Fougasse is a traditional French bread that is often served as an accompaniment to stews, soups, and other dishes.
• Its name comes from the Provençal word for "cave", because of its star-shaped cuts that resemble the entrances to caves.
• Fougasse can be made with a variety of ingredients, including herbs, nuts, and spices.