Mix 1 cup of flour, the sugar, salt and yeast in a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup of the oil and the warm water (make sure the water is between 120°F and 130°F). Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 3 minutes, scraping the bowl occasionally. Stir in enough of the remaining flour until the dough is soft but pulls away from the side of the bowl as you stir.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-10 minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough on a greased bowl and turn it greased side up. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 – 1 1/2 hours or until double. The dough is ready when an indentation remains in it after it is touched.

Preheat the oven to 425°F.

Grease 2 cookie sheets with shortening. Punch the dough down and divide it in half. Shape each half into a flattened 12 inch round on a cookie sheet. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 20 minutes. Prick the centers of the rounds and 1 inch from the edge of the rounds, thoroughly with a fork. Brush the rounds with oil and sprinkle with the cheese and herbs.

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the cookie sheets to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes 2 focaccia bread, about 12 pieces each.