Dried Fig And Walnut Bread

Instructions

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. 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. 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. Preheat oven to 425°F. 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. 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. Bake bread for 35 mins or until browned and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Transfer to wire rack to cool.