Leaf Bread

Ingredients

Active dry yeast

2 teaspoons

Sugar

1 teaspoon

Warm water

1 cup (110°f or 43°c)

All-purpose flour

3 cups (plus more for dusting)

Salt

1 teaspoon

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.
3. Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Stir the mixture until a dough begins to form.
4. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
8. Take each portion and roll it out into an oval shape. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to make small cuts along the edges to resemble leaf veins.
9. Arrange the shaped bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the leaf bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.