Houloumopsomi (Cheese Bread)

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp active yeast
• 4 tbsp warm water
• 1 to 2 cups warm water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• olive oil
• 9 oz Haloumi cheese, cut into 1/2 inch dice
• 1-2 tablespoons dried mint (or to taste)

Directions:

1. Dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand until frothy.
2. Sift the flour into a bowl and add 1 cup of water and salt. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the yeast. Stir to incorporate, adding more water if needed.
3. Add the diced cheese and the mint.
4. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should not be sticky. Now add about a tablespoon of olive oil and a little extra flour to help get the dough completely out of the bowl.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place in a floured bowl, covering lightly. Let rise in a warm place for an hour or so or until doubled in size.
6. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 450 degrees.
7. Put the dough on a baking sheet and put in the oven. Bake for 5-10 minutes, then reduce heat to about 425 degrees and keep baking for 25 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on your bread because this is still pretty hot, and you don't want it burning.
8. When done, the bread should have a nice hard crust and be soft inside.