Rustic Tomato Olive Bread

Ingredients

Warm water

1 cup

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Sugar

1 tablespoon

Salt

1 teaspoon

Yeast

1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons)

Bread flour

3 cups

Tomatoes

2 medium, diced

Instructions

1. Begin by combining your bread flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix in the diced tomatoes, olive oil, and warm water, stirring until the dough starts to come together. It should be slightly sticky but firm.
3. Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead for approximately 10 minutes. Your goal is a dough that's smooth and elastic.
4. Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a towel. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough rises for the second time.
6. Punch down your risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Transfer it to a baking sheet and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Bake your loaf for about 45 minutes, until it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Allow your bread to cool before slicing to ensure it holds its shape. Serve it warm with butter or with your favorite soup or salad.