Stuffed Focaccia

Ingredients:

For Focaccia Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)

For Filling:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For Topping:

• Extra olive oil
• Coarse sea salt
• Additional dried Italian herbs

Cooking Steps:

Focaccia Dough: Step 1: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and dried Italian herbs. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Assembly: Step 5: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet.

Step 6: Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to fit the baking sheet.

Step 7: Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

Step 8: Add the sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage, black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil on top of the cheese.

Step 9: Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the fillings, creating a stuffed border.

Baking: Step 10: Drizzle extra olive oil over the top, sprinkle with coarse sea salt and additional dried Italian herbs.

Step 11: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 12: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this stuffed focaccia, a versatile and satisfying bread that's perfect for sharing with friends and family.