Description
Focaccia bread is a deliciously simple, versatile Italian bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe results in a soft, chewy loaf with a crispy golden crust, flavored with rosemary and olive oil.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or other herbs optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Pour the warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and ¼ cup of olive oil into the dry mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Generously oil a baking sheet or pan (approximately 18×13 inches) to prevent sticking.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then transfer it to the oiled baking pan. Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan.
- Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Once the dough has risen a second time, use your fingers to press dimples all over the surface, creating indentations.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough, then sprinkle with sea salt and rosemary (or any other herbs you prefer).
- Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Remove the focaccia from the oven, and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil for varied flavors.
For a cheesy twist, add grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese to the dough before baking.
Add chopped olives or roasted garlic cloves for extra savory elements.
For a slightly sweet variation, try adding honey and a sprinkle of sugar along with rosemary.
Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
