Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

• 2 tsp cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 5–6 cloves black garlic, mashed or finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:
   In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and cracked black pepper. Mix in the mashed black garlic.

3. Make Dough:
   Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
   Turn onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Shape & Second Rise:
   Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf or round boule. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
   Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

6. Bake:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   Optionally, slash the top with a sharp knife. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

7. Cool & Serve:
   Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
   Serve warm with butter, or alongside soup or cheese.