Looking for a delightful bread that will elevate your meals? This focaccia bread recipe is not only simple to prepare but also results in a fluffy, flavorful loaf that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. Topped with herbs and olive oil, it’s the perfect addition to any table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through each step to achieve the perfect focaccia.
Ingredients
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 10g salt
– 10g sugar
– 7g instant yeast
– 300ml warm water
– 60ml olive oil
– Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 1 hour for rising, and cooking time is 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 5g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, mix warm water and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
4. Mix until a dough forms; knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl; cover with a damp cloth.
6. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
7. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
8. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
9. Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan; make dimples with your fingers.
10. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs and sea salt, and let it rise for another 20 minutes.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to customize your focaccia.
Serving and Pairings
Focaccia bread pairs perfectly with olive oil for dipping, soups, salads, or as a sandwich base. It also complements cheese platters and charcuterie boards beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
– Using cold water can hinder yeast activation.
– Over-kneading the dough can make it tough.
– Skipping the resting time will result in dense bread.
– Not using enough olive oil can lead to dryness.
– Forgetting to dimple the dough can prevent proper rising.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
– Experiment with different herbs for unique tastes.
– For extra crunch, bake on a pizza stone.
– Let the focaccia cool completely before slicing.
FAQs
Can I make focaccia in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
What can I do with leftover focaccia?
Leftover focaccia can be used for sandwiches, croutons, or toasted with toppings for a quick snack.
Is focaccia gluten-free?
Traditional focaccia is not gluten-free, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend as an alternative.
How do I know when my focaccia is done?
The focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add toppings to my focaccia?
Absolutely! You can add olives, cheese, or various herbs before baking for added flavor.
Conclusion
This focaccia bread recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy baking and savoring this Italian classic!
Focaccia Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 10 g salt
- 10 g sugar
- 7 g instant yeast
- 300 ml warm water
- 60 ml olive oil
- Fresh herbs rosemary, thyme
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm water and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms; knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl; cover with a damp cloth.
- Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan; make dimples with your fingers.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs and sea salt, and let it rise for another 20 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.