If you’re looking to elevate your baking game, this focaccia bread recipe is perfect for you. With its golden crust and airy texture, it’s a delightful dish that pairs well with various meals or can be enjoyed on its own. This step-by-step guide will have you making delicious focaccia in no time, whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
500g all-purpose flour, 10g salt, 7g instant yeast, 350ml warm water, 50ml olive oil, fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme), and sea salt for topping.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, plus 1 hour of rising time. Cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece) contains roughly 200 calories, 7g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, 8g of fat, and 1g of fiber. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm water and yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Transfer the dough to a lined baking tray and stretch it out gently.
- Using your fingers, create dimples in the dough.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs and sea salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to use other herbs like basil or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Serving and Pairings
Focaccia pairs beautifully with olive oil for dipping, soups, salads, or as a sandwich bread. It also makes a great appetizer when topped with tomatoes and mozzarella.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste. It can also be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Skipping the rising time results in dense bread.
- Using cold water will hinder yeast activation.
- Overbaking can lead to a dry focaccia.
- Not oiling the baking tray may cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for optimal results.
- Brush with garlic-infused oil for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make focaccia without yeast?
Yes, you can use baking powder as a leavening agent, but the texture will differ from traditional yeast focaccia.
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
The focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add cheese to my focaccia?
Absolutely! Adding cheese like mozzarella or feta can enhance the flavor and create a delicious topping.
How do I store leftover focaccia?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
What can I serve with focaccia?
Focaccia pairs well with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches. It can also be enjoyed plain with olive oil for dipping.
Conclusion
Making focaccia bread is a rewarding experience that anyone can achieve. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, you’ll have a delicious homemade bread that elevates any meal. Enjoy this delightful bread warm, topped with your favorite ingredients, and share the joy of baking with family and friends!
Focaccia Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 10 g salt
- 7 g instant yeast
- 350 ml warm water
- 50 ml olive oil
- Fresh herbs rosemary, thyme
- Sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm water and yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Transfer the dough to a lined baking tray and stretch it out gently.
- Using your fingers, create dimples in the dough.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs and sea salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
