Simple Focaccia is easy Italian focaccia bread recipe using Manitoba flour, olive oil and warm water. Great to enjoy simple slice with wine or cut to make a sandwich but could be served with stew or soup!
In large bowl, whisk manually sponge ingredients, cover with foil and leave aside for 30 minutes.
While the sponge is aside, prepare 7 x 11 inches baking sheet pan and brush it with olive oil. Leave aside as well.
Using paddle attachment, mix sponge with dough ingredients on low speed.
Leave the dough to rest for 60 minutes. After 40 minutes of resting, preheat the oven to 200 C / 392 F.
Knead the dough once again, dampen your hands with water to transfer the dough into the prepared pan. Spread the dough all over the pan using your hands.
Create dimples in focaccia dough using your fingertips so virgin olive oil has little holes o go to.
Brush 1 Tbsp olive oil over the complete surface.
Press olives and tomatoes in the dough and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake for 22 minutes until focaccia becomes golden brown and crisp on the top.
Leave aside for several minutes, cut, and serve while still warm, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary.