OLIVE BREAD

Steps:

• Place water, yeast, and molasses in a mixing bowl; stir to mix.
• Let stand for a few minutes until mixture is creamy and foamy.
• Add olive oil and salt; mix.
• Add flour, about a cup at a time, until dough is too stiff to stir.
• Add olives and fresh herbs.
• Turn dough out onto a lightly floured board.
• Knead, adding flour as needed to keep from being sticky, until smooth and elastic.
• Place in well oiled bowl, and turn to coat the dough surface with oil.
• Allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about an hour or so.
• Punch the dough down, split into two pieces, and form into two round loaves.
• Place on greased baking sheet.
• Spray with cold water and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
• Let loaves rise for 25 to 30 minutes.
• Bake at 400°F (205°C) for about 45 minutes, or until they are brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.