Focaccia bread is a delicious Italian flatbread known for its crispy crust and soft, airy interior. This recipe will guide you through creating this delightful bread that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with homemade focaccia that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 350ml warm water
– 10g salt
– 7g dry yeast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp sugar
– Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
– Sea salt for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This focaccia bread recipe yields 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a rising time of 1 hour and baking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice):
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 34g
– Fat: 4g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on a single slice of focaccia.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture.
4. Add olive oil and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
7. Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
8. Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet.
9. Press your fingers into the dough to create dimples.
10. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and fresh herbs, then bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to add toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to customize the flavor of your focaccia.
Serving and Pairings
Focaccia bread pairs wonderfully with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It also complements soups, salads, or can be used as a sandwich base, offering a delightful texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the dough rise enough.
- Using cold water instead of warm for yeast activation.
- Over-kneading the dough can lead to tough bread.
- Skipping the olive oil drizzle for flavor.
- Baking at too low a temperature can yield soggy bread.
- Not pressing dimples deeply enough.
- Forgetting to sprinkle sea salt on top.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different toppings to enhance taste.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for better results.
- Use a baking stone for an extra crispy crust.
- Brush with garlic-infused oil for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make focaccia without yeast?
While traditional focaccia requires yeast for rising, you can try using baking powder as an alternative. However, the texture will differ from classic focaccia.
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
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! Focaccia is versatile. You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, or even caramelized onions before baking for extra flavor.
How long does focaccia last?
Homemade focaccia can last up to 2 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 months when properly stored.
Is focaccia gluten-free?
Traditional focaccia is not gluten-free, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Making focaccia bread at home is a rewarding experience that results in a delightful, flavorful bread. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy warm, homemade focaccia that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Experiment with different toppings and pairings to make it your own!
Focaccia Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 350 ml warm water
- 10 g salt
- 7 g dry yeast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Fresh herbs rosemary, thyme
- Sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture.
- Add olive oil and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet.
- Press your fingers into the dough to create dimples.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and fresh herbs, then bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
