Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Red Lentil Focaccia (Small Batch)

1.Place the rinsed red lentils in a bowl and cover with 2 cups of water. Allow them to soak for at least 3 hours at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

2.Drain the soaked lentils into a fine-mesh sieve and rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. Let them drain thoroughly for 5 minutes in the sieve to avoid a watery batter.

3.In a small bowl, whisk together the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes until a thick foam forms on the surface, indicating the yeast is active.

4.Transfer the drained lentils to a blender. Add the yeast mixture, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the fine sea salt. Blend on high for 1 to 2 minutes until the batter is completely smooth, creamy, and free of visible grit.

5.Pour the batter into a greased bowl. Cover with a warm, damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a draft-free spot for 60 minutes, or until the batter has nearly doubled in size and appears aerated.

6.Lightly grease a 20x20 cm (approx. 8x8 inch) silicone baking form with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Gently pour the fermented batter into the form, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the corners without deflating the air bubbles.

7.Cover the form and let the dough rise a second time for 30 to 45 minutes until noticeably puffy. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

8.Grease your fingertips with a little olive oil and gently press deep dimples into the surface of the dough, reaching almost to the bottom of the silicone form. Evenly distribute the sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and rosemary into the dimples.

9.Drizzle the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over the top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes until the edges are deep golden brown and the top feels firm and bounces back when touched.

10.Allow the focaccia to cool in the silicone form for 10 minutes to set the crumb before carefully unmolding onto a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.