Focaccia bread is a delightful Italian flatbread known for its crispy crust and soft, airy interior. It’s perfect as an appetizer, side, or even a base for sandwiches. The aroma of fresh herbs and olive oil wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to make focaccia that’s perfectly seasoned and beautifully textured, ensuring it becomes a staple in your home baking repertoire.
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 ¾ cups warm water
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp sugar
– Fresh rosemary (or other herbs)
– Coarse sea salt for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while the cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece) of focaccia bread contains approximately 180 calories, 3g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, 7g of fat, and 1g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mix.
4. Stir until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
7. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
8. Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
9. Stretch the dough with your fingers to fit the pan.
10. Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough and drizzle olive oil on top.
11. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and fresh herbs.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese for varied flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Focaccia pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches. Serve it warm with a side of balsamic vinegar or olive oil for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the proofing step; it ensures a light texture.
– Avoid adding too much flour while kneading.
– Ensure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
– Don’t rush the rising time; it’s crucial for flavor.
– Use enough olive oil to achieve a crispy crust.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
– Use a baking stone for a better crust.
– Let the dough rise in a warm area for optimal results.
– For added flavor, infuse the olive oil with garlic before drizzling.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the flour without dissolving it in water first.
How do I know when the focaccia is done baking?
The focaccia is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add toppings to my focaccia?
Absolutely! Feel free to add olives, tomatoes, or cheese before baking for additional flavor.
How can I make my focaccia extra fluffy?
Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise and do not add too much flour while kneading.
Is it possible to make focaccia without gluten?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends designed for bread baking to make a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Making focaccia bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. With its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, this bread is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy it fresh, or use it in various dishes, and watch it become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Focaccia Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ¾ cups warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Fresh rosemary or other herbs
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mix.
- Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Stretch the dough with your fingers to fit the pan.
- Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough and drizzle olive oil on top.
- Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and fresh herbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.