An easy loaf with the wonderful anise flavor of fennel.

Makes 1 large loaf

You will need:
2 teaspoon active dry yeast
2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon honey
5 cups flour
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
3 tablespoons olive oil
flaky salt
fennel seeds to put on top

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in water and honey. Let it stand for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour a little at a time and stir well.
3. Add fennel seeds, oil, and salt and stir until dough comes away from the bowl.
4. Knead for 1 minute.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and set in a warm area to rise, about 2 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 450ºF.
7. Place dough on a baking tray covered with parchment paper.
8. Put a little oil on your fingers and press the dough down. It should cover the whole tray.
9. Sprinkle with salt and fennel seeds.
10. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden.
11. Cool on a wire rack.

Photography by Melina Hamme