Homemade Black Olive Bread

1. In the standup mixer or large bowl add the lukewarm water and sprinkle the yeast on top, let sit 5-10 minutes then stir to combine. Add the flour, salt and olive oil.
2. Knead on speed #1 until just combined, add the chopped olives and knead on speed #2 for 5-6 minutes, until dough is compact and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be slightly tacky but not stick to your hands, if needed add a bit more flour ½ tablespoon at a time.
3. Place the dough on a floured flat surface and knead a few times to form a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, roll the dough to cover lightly with the oil, cover the bowl and let rise in a warm draft free area approximately 2 hours or doubled in bulk.
4. Place the dough on a lightly floured flat surface and knead a few times, roughly flatten the dough then fold it into the desired shape, sprinkle with flour (rice, semolina or bread/all purpose). Cover the dough and let rise 30-60 minutes* in a warm draft free area.
5. Pre heat the oven to 425° (220° celsius). If using a pizza stone or upside down cookie sheet place in the oven while it is pre-heating. Place an empty cake pan in the bottom of the oven.
6. Score the dough, place the dough on the cookie sheet or pizza stone (be careful it will be very hot), add a cup of boiling water to the pan and bake. If using a dutch oven, place the bread on parchment paper and place in the pot (no need to pre-heat it) score, cover and bake.
7. Bake for approximately 30 minutes for the cookie sheet and pizza stone, 25-30 minutes in the dutch oven, then remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes. Enjoy!

*The dough can rest on a parchment paper covered cookie sheet or wooden board.