Rustic Skillet Bread

Ingredients

• Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons)
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Warm water (1 1/2 cups)
• All-purpose flour (4 cups)
• Salt (2 teaspoons)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons, plus extra for drizzling)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy, indicating it's active.
2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir the mixture until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are combined.
3. Cover the bowl with a towel and place it in a warm area for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a cast-iron skillet inside to heat up.
5. Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Allow the dough to rest for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and drizzle the bottom with olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
7. Transfer the dough into the skillet, then return it to the oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. For an extra touch, serve with more olive oil for dipping.