Focaccia

Focaccia

Focaccia is a delicious Italian bread that is soft, fluffy, and full of flavor. With its golden crust and aromatic toppings, it makes the perfect addition to any meal or a tasty snack on its own. This versatile bread is easy to make and can be customized with various toppings, making it a favorite in many kitchens.

Why Make This Recipe

Making focaccia at home is a rewarding experience. You can control the ingredients and create a fresh loaf that bursts with flavor. Additionally, the process of kneading and watching the dough rise is satisfying. This recipe allows you to create a comforting bread that can be enjoyed in many ways, whether as a side dish, a sandwich, or just dipped in olive oil.

How to Make Focaccia

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Fresh rosemary, for garnish
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough onto a greased baking sheet and stretch it to fit.
7. Dimple the surface with your fingers, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with rosemary and coarse sea salt.
8. Let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Focaccia

Focaccia is great served warm right out of the oven. You can enjoy it plain, with olive oil for dipping, or as a base for sandwiches. It pairs well with soups, salads, or served alongside your favorite pasta dish. Feel free to add toppings like tomatoes or olives for extra flavor!

How to Store Focaccia

To store focaccia, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. You can keep it at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container or bag and freeze it. Just heat it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips to Make Focaccia

• Make sure your water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead the dough well to create a better texture.
• Don’t rush the rising times; it’s key to achieving a fluffy bread.
• Experiment with different toppings like garlic, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique taste.

Variation

You can easily customize focaccia by adding different herbs, spices, or toppings. For instance, try adding garlic or cheese to the dough or sprinkle some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top before baking.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter result.

How can I make my focaccia crispy?

To achieve a crispy crust, preheat your baking sheet in the oven before placing the dough on it. This helps create steam and a crispy exterior.

Can I add toppings before baking?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle toppings like herbs, cheese, or vegetables on the dough before baking. Just make sure they are not too heavy so they don’t weigh down the bread.