Focaccia Bread Recipe
Focaccia is a classic Italian bread that’s known for its soft, airy texture and delicious herb-topped crust. Whether served as an appetizer, sandwich base, or alongside pasta, focaccia is versatile and easy to make at home. This recipe yields a beautifully fluffy focaccia that’s rich with olive oil flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 3/4 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until foamy.
- Add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet or pan with olive oil.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and press it out into a rectangle or circle about 1/2-inch thick. Use your fingers to dimple the surface of the dough.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil, sprinkle with dried rosemary, and flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips
For extra flavor, add sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, or caramelized onions before baking. Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispiness.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, fresh rosemary or thyme can be used. Just increase the amount to account for the milder flavor of fresh herbs.
- How do I store focaccia? Store focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Can I freeze focaccia? Yes, focaccia freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.
- What should I serve with focaccia? Focaccia is perfect on its own, dipped in olive oil, or served alongside pasta, soups, or salads.
Conclusion
This focaccia bread recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves soft, flavorful bread. Topped with olive oil, herbs, and a hint of sea salt, it’s the perfect accompaniment to many dishes or simply enjoyed on its own. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy the taste of Italy right at home!
