Fluffy Herb Focaccia Bread

This fast bread is packed with herbs and is an amazing light, fluffy addition to any meal.

5 ½ cups flour

2 tsp salt

2 tsp white sugar

2 tbsp active dry yeast

2 tsp garlic powder

2 tsp oregano

2 tsp thyme

1 tsp basil

2 pinches ground black pepper

2 tbsp vegetable oil

2 cups water

For topping:

4 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp grate Parmesan cheese

2 cups grated mozzarella

1 In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, sugar, yeast, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, basil and black pepper. Mix in the vegetable oil and water.

Note: Use fresh herbs in addition to or in place of dried herbs listed for added color and taste.

2 When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead until smooth and elastic. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl, and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 20 minutes.

3 Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Punch dough down; place on greased baking sheet. Pat into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle. Brush top with olive oil. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.

4 Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Note: A favorite tradition of mine with fresh baked goods is to break them open while they're piping warm and shoving my nose into the steam to grab a fresh, potent smell. I then carry the freshly broken baked good to anyone within earshot and insist they do the same. This focaccia bread is no exception.