This simple, no-knead olive bread delivers a flavorful crust with minimal effort, perfect for a quick yet artisanal loaf.
Ingredients
Dough
3 1/4cupsbread flour(spooned & leveled, plus more for shaping and pan)
2teaspoonsinstant or active dry yeast
2teaspoonscoarse salt(see note)
2teaspoonsdried oregano
1 1/2teaspoonsgarlic powder
1 heapingcuproughly chopped olives
1 1/2cupswater(close to room temperature at about 70°F (21°C))
optionalcornmeal(for dusting pan)
Instructions
Mix flour, yeast, salt, oregano, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir in olives, then add water and mix until shaggy. Shape into a ball, cover, and let rise for 2-3 hours or refrigerate for 12 hours to 3 days.
Turn dough onto a floured surface, shape into a ball, and let rest for 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) during this time.
Score the dough with a slash or X. If desired, place a pan of boiling water in the oven for steam. Transfer dough to a prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding or internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C). Cool before slicing.
Notes
For a crispier crust, add steam during baking by pouring boiling water into a pan in the oven.