Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
• Pour in the very warm water and mix with a fork or whisk until the ingredients are well combined and a sticky dough forms.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and set it in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
• While the dough is rising, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
• Once the dough has risen, gently transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Use your fingers to stretch and spread the dough into a rectangular shape, ensuring it's about ½ inch thick.
• Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• After the second rise, make dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top, and sprinkle it with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown on top.
• Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Cut it into squares or slices and serve warm.