Bread is a staple food in the UK and can be part of a healthy balanced diet.

Wholegrain flours in bread have many benefits due to the natural fibre content and nutritional profile.

A daily fibre intake – as part of a balanced nutritious diet – can have lasting health benefits; especially when taken alongside other measures such as reducing alcohol, not smoking, minimising stress, taking regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.

The health benefits of these measures  include lowering the risks of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and bowel issues to name a few.

I am pleased to share a tasty and versatile Focaccia recipe for you to enjoy. It is super-easy to make.

Ingredients

700g Bread flour (try some granary or wholegrain flour or a mix of flours)

1 teaspoon salt

2x  7g sachets of dried Yeast (or equivalent fresh)

Tepid water – to mix (approx. 500mls)

Olive oil – 2 tablespoons

Extra olive oil for greasing the tin and to brush the bread with

Method

1. Put the flour, salt and yeast in a bowl
2. Add the water and then the oil
3. Mix well to form a sticky dough (it should be a wet dough consistency that you cannot pick up)
4. Cover and leave in a warm place for 1 ½ hours
5. Grease a large roasting pan
6. Tip in the dough and spread until it covers the base of the tin
7. Sprinkle with salt, fresh/dried herbs, fresh/dried garlic and olive oil
8. Press in whole olives, baby tomatoes or anything else you fancy
9. Place in a hot oven 230c/450f/gas 8 until golden (about 12-15 minutes)
10. Serve hot or cold