Garlic Red Pepper Focaccia

This recipe makes 2 round focaccia disks. Best to cut with a pizza cutter and served right out of the oven.

Ingredients for bread:

• 1 package active dry yeast or 2 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoons honey
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup cool water
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Directions for bread:

In a medium bowl, dissolve the yeast in the 1/4 cup warm water; allow to stand until frothy. Stir in the olive oil, honey, flour, salt and parmesan. Knead until smooth and elastic. Lightly grease a small bowl and place dough in the bowl; turning over to grease other side. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled; about 45 minutes. 

Ingredients for topping:

• 2 tablespoons dried crushed chili peppers
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

Directions for topping:

Combine the chili peppers, parmesan and garlic in a small bowl. If you do want the bread so spicy; I eliminate the fresh garlic and dried pepper flakes and just sprinkle dried garlic granules on top.

Preheat oven to 425-degree oven. 

Punch down dough and divide in half. Press dough into a well-greased round pizza pan. Repeat with other piece of dough. Or press into a well-greased 9x13-inch baking sheet. Dimple the top of each. Brush 2 tablespoon olive oil onto each and spread the combined topping mixture evenly over top of each.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.