Dried Fig And Walnut Bread

1. 1

   Combine yeast, sugar and 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water in bowl of an electric mixer. Let stand in a warm place for 10 mins or until bubbly.

2. 2

   Add flour and salt to the bowl; mix with electric mixer fitted with a dough hook on the knead setting for 5 mins or until smooth and elastic. Transfer dough to a board; press out to flatten slightly. Top with nuts and figs; knead into dough.

3. 3

   Place dough in an oiled bowl. Place bowl in a large plastic bag; seal bag. Let stand in a warm place for 45 mins or until dough doubles in size.

4. 4

   Preheat oven to 425u00b0F. Place a baking pan in the oven to heat. Punch down dough with fist. Knead on floured surface into oval shape, 11 inches long. Place dough on a large piece of parchment paper, then on a board. Place board in plastic bag; seal bag. Let stand in a warm place for 15 mins or until risen slightly.

5. 5

   Remove bag; transfer dough to hot baking pan. Sprinkle top with a little extra flour. Using a small sharp knife, make a shallow cut along length of loaf, leaving 1 1/2 inch-border at each end. Spray bread and pan lightly with mist of water, or sprinkle lightly with water.

6. 6

   Bake bread for 35 mins or until browned and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Transfer to wire rack to cool.

No additional tips available.