Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

Directions

1. Combine warm water, sugar and yeast in a bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add olive oil and mix until combined.
3. Add yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until it is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
5. Place dough in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
6. Punch down dough and turn onto a floured surface. Roll dough into a 12-inch circle.
7. Transfer dough to a greased baking sheet. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and rosemary. Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
9. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Let cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Focaccia is a type of Italian flatbread.
• The traditional topping for focaccia is rosemary and Parmesan cheese.
• Focaccia can also be served as a side dish or cut into pieces and served as an appetizer.