Just Italian Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup warm water. Cover and leave in warm place until frothy--approximately 5-10 minutes.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, sift 3 cups flour with salt into a large bowl. Make a well in the center.
3. 3
   Pour yeast/water mixture, Agave, oil, and 1 cup extra water into the well.
4. 4
   Using a wooden spoon, stir until mixture is well-combined and forms a rough ball. Turn out onto a lightly-floured surface, and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Add extra flour as necessary to form a smooth ball.
5. 5
   Place dough in large, lightly oiled bowl. Brush surface of dough with oil. Cover and leave to rise in warm place for about 1 hour or until well risen.
6. 6
   Sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal.
7. 7
   Punch down dough and knead for 1 minute. Shape dough into smooth ball and place on prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten top.
8. 8
   Using a sharp knife, slash a criss-cross/checkerboard pattern into the top of the dough. Cover and leave to rise in warm place for about 1 hour or until well risen.
9. 9
   Preheat oven to 350°F Place a shallow baking dish containing 2 cups of water in the bottom of the oven to help bread form a hard crust.
10. 10
    Brush dough with glaze of water and salt; sprinkle with cornmeal or flour.
11. 11
    Bake 35-40 minutes or until base of bread sounds hollow when tapped. Cool on a wire rack.