Homemade focaccia recipe
Focaccia is a classic Italian bread that’s easy to make at home. With its crunchy crust and soft, airy interior, it’s perfect for dipping in olive oil or using as a base for sandwiches. In this article, we will tell you how to make delicious homemade focaccia bread.
The supplier
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 packet of active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary
- refined sea salt
Directions
Mix the flour, salt, sugar and yeast in a large bowl.
Add the warm water and olive oil and mix until the ingredients come together into a sticky dough.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until smooth and soft.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a dry towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Press the dough and place it on a lightly oiled baking tray. Use your fingers to press the dough into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle.
Make indentations across the entire surface of the dough with your fingers.
Sprinkle the dough with chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt.
Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crunchy on the outside.
Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips for making homemade focaccia bread
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own delicious homemade focaccia bread:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until a dough starts to form.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet and gently stretch it to fit the pan. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes and then try again.
- Using your fingertips, gently press into the dough to create dimples all over the surface. Drizzle olive oil over the dough, allowing it to fill the dimples. This will give the focaccia its characteristic texture and flavor.
- Now it’s time to add your desired toppings. Sprinkle the focaccia with your chosen ingredients such as fresh rosemary leaves, sliced olives, halved cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions. Press the toppings lightly into the dough.
- Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown on top. The exact baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
- Once the focaccia is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack. Slice it into squares or wedges and serve it warm or at room temperature.
Homemade focaccia bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on its own, used as a base for sandwiches, or served alongside soups and salads. Its fragrant aroma and soft texture make it a favorite among bread enthusiasts, and baking it at home allows you to experiment with different flavors and toppings. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on the journey of making your very own delicious homemade focaccia bread.
