HERB FOCACCIA

Preheat your oven to 200deg C . In a medium saucepan combine 1/2 cup ( 125 ml ) of olive oil ,, 1 tbs of minced garlic ,1 dsp of dried thyme , 1 dsp of dried rosemary , 1/2 tsp of coarse black pepper . cover and cook over a low heat for 5 minutes , stirring occasionally until aromatic . Remove from heat and set aside . In a large bowl , add 1 cup (250ml) of warm water , 1 and 1/4 dsp of dry yeast ,1 tsp of honey and stir together and leave stand for 5 minutes. Next add 1 cup ( 125gm )of plain flour and 1/4 of a cup (60 ml )of the garlic infused oil mixture , stir 3 times until the flour is soaked . Let stand for another 5 minutes , then stir in another 185 gm of plain flour and 1 tsp of salt . Bring the dough together using your hands Turn out on a lightly floured bench and knead the dough until until smooth (about 2 minutes) do not over work it . Transfer the dough to an oil bowl and cover with a warm damp towel . Leave to rise in a warm place for 1 hour . Line a baking tray with baking paper . Transfer the dough to the baking tray , press it into the desired shape , use a sharp knife to slash the dough diagonally a few times and then finish off by drizzling the remaining oil mixture over top . Let the dough sit for 20 minutes , it will rise slightly. then bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until lightly golden . Remove from the oven and serve immediately . The aromas are amazing ..