Italian Herb Bread

Fresh herbs infuse this hearty italian loaf! Prep time includes rising time.

• Ready In: 3 hrs 35 mins
• Serves: 32
• Yields: 2 loaves

Ingredients

• 1  tablespoon dry yeast
• 2  cups water
• 2  tablespoons sugar
• 1⁄4 cup olive oil
• 1  tablespoon sea salt
• 2  tablespoons fresh basil
• 2  tablespoons fresh oregano
• 1  teaspoon garlic powder
• 1  teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 cup  freshly grated pecorino romano cheese
• 6  cups all-purpose flour

Directions

1. Mix yeast, warm water and sugar together in a large bowl. Set aside for five minutes, or until mixture becomes foamy.
2. Stir in olive oil, salt, herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, cheese and 3 cups flour into the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually mix in next three cups of flour. (Dough will be stiff). Knead for 5 to 10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Place in an oiled bowl, turning to cover sides with oil. Cover with a damp linen towel, or plastic wrap. Let rise for 1 hour, or until dough has doubled.
5. Punch down to release all the air. Shape into two loaves. Place loaves on a greased cookie sheet, or into two 9x5 inch, greased pans.
6. Allow to rise for 1/2 hour again, until doubled in a warm place.
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.
8. Remove loaves from pans and let cool on wire racks for at least 15 minutes, before slicing.