Focaccia

Making focaccia is easier than you think. With our recipe, you can create authentic Italian focaccia bread in just three hours. This recipe has been tested by hundreds of our followers, making it a trusted choice for a delicious treat. Focaccia is not only perfect as a side dish but also excellent for sandwiches or enjoyed on its own with olive oil. Its crisp and golden crust combined with a soft, airy crumb makes it truly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of active prep time, you’ll have fresh focaccia ready in under three hours.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize your focaccia with various toppings such as herbs, olives, or tomatoes to suit any occasion.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can make this focaccia using basic kitchen tools that you likely already have at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the ingredients and instructions, ensure you have the right tools ready. This will streamline your baking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Baking pan
• Plastic wrap or damp cloth

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while allowing enough space for dough expansion during proofing.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing sticky dough without adding too much flour, ensuring the right texture.
• Baking pan: Provides the perfect surface for baking your focaccia evenly, contributing to a crispy crust.

Ingredients

• 1¾ cups lukewarm water
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (+ 2 tablespoons to grease the baking pan or you can substitute parchment paper.)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon salt (+ flaky salt optional)
• 3 pinches rosemary (optional to taste; fresh or dry.)

How to Make Focaccia

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Measure your ingredients for the dough. In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, instant dry yeast, and sugar. Whisk them together and let sit for about 30 seconds until the yeast fully dissolves. If it does not dissolve completely, start again with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, stir together flour and salt. Next, add the yeast-water mixture. Stir with a sturdy wooden spoon until you achieve a wet, sticky dough—this should take about one minute. Then add in the extra virgin olive oil and continue stirring for an additional minute until well incorporated.

Step 3: Choose Your Proofing Method

You can choose between quick proofing or slow proofing:

• Quick Proofing (1.5 to 2 hours): Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Place it in a slightly warm oven (turn it on for just one minute, then turn it off) until the dough doubles in size.

• Slow Proofing (8 to 24 hours): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for anywhere between eight to twenty-four hours. When ready to proceed, let it sit at room temperature for two to three hours before continuing.

Step 4: Folding

Once proofed, gently fold the dough over itself about 20 to 40 times using a spoon while still in the bowl. This should take around 30 to 60 seconds. Stop once you feel the dough tighten.

Step 5: Final Proofing

Grease your baking pan with two to three tablespoons of olive oil and transfer the dough into it. Use two spoons (wet them first) to spread the dough until most of the pan is covered—it’s okay if it gets slightly wet on top. Cover again with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to proof in a warm area for about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Step 6: Topping

In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with three tablespoons of water and half a teaspoon of salt until dissolved. Dip your fingers into this mixture and press dimples across the focaccia’s surface. Pour any remaining oil-water mixture over the dough so it seeps into those dimples. Optionally, sprinkle rosemary and flaky salt on top.

Step 7: Bake

Once preheated, place your focaccia on the middle-low rack of your oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. If it’s thick, aim closer to twenty-five minutes; if thin, check at twenty minutes. The focaccia should be golden brown on top while still soft inside. Allow cooling for at least five minutes before removing from the pan and serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked focaccia!

How to Serve Focaccia

Focaccia is a versatile bread that pairs well with various dishes and toppings. Here are some delicious ways to serve it, enhancing its flavor and texture.

As a Sandwich Base

• Layered Delight: Use focaccia as the base for sandwiches. Fill it with fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, or turkey for a satisfying meal.
• Panini Style: Grill slices of focaccia with your favorite fillings for a crispy, melty panini experience.

Dipped in Olive Oil

• Classic Appetizer: Serve warm focaccia with a side of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for dipping. Add balsamic vinegar for an extra kick.
• Herb Infused: Infuse olive oil with garlic or herbs like rosemary before serving to elevate the flavor.

Topped with Spreads

• Hummus Spread: Slather hummus on focaccia for a nutritious snack or appetizer. Pair it with fresh veggies on the side.
• Creamy Cheese: Spread ricotta or goat cheese on warm focaccia and top with honey or herbs for a delightful treat.

As an Accompaniment

• Soup Companion: Serve alongside hearty soups or stews. The bread absorbs flavors and adds texture to the meal.
• Salad Side: Pair focaccia with salads as a side dish. It complements greens beautifully while adding a filling element.

How to Perfect Focaccia

To make the best focaccia, follow these essential tips that will enhance your baking skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is active and fresh. This guarantees proper rising and texture in your dough.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough just until combined; overworking can lead to dense bread. A light touch is key!
• Proof in Warmth: Proof your dough in a slightly warm environment to encourage optimal rising. Avoid cold drafts.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add different toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese before baking for unique flavors.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your focaccia as it bakes. Every oven is different; adjust time as needed for golden perfection.

Best Side Dishes for Focaccia

Focaccia pairs wonderfully with many side dishes that complement its flavor profile. Here’s a list of great options to serve alongside.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make for a colorful and healthy side.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing accompaniment.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices add protein and heartiness to your meal.
4. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with fresh vegetables enhances the Italian theme while being satisfying.
5. Marinated Olives: A mix of olives marinated in herbs and spices provides bold flavors that pair perfectly with focaccia.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty vegetarian option alongside the bread.
7. Garlic Soup: A creamy garlic soup provides warmth and comfort when served next to freshly baked focaccia.
8. Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and tomatoes give freshness and brightness to your focus on bread enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making focaccia is a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold phrase: Not using lukewarm water. Yeast needs the right temperature to activate properly. Always ensure your water is lukewarm, around 100°F (37°C).

• Bold phrase: Over-kneading the dough. Focaccia dough should be wet and sticky. Knead just enough to combine the ingredients without developing too much gluten.

• Bold phrase: Skipping the proofing time. Proper proofing is essential for airy bread. Be patient and allow the dough to rise adequately, either quickly or slowly.

• Bold phrase: Ignoring oven temperature. An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) before baking for best results.

• Bold phrase: Not using enough olive oil. The oil adds flavor and helps create that signature crisp crust. Don’t skimp on greasing the pan or adding it to the dough.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store focaccia in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Focaccia

• Wrap focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Focaccia

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15 seconds, checking often to avoid drying it out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making focaccia that may help you along your baking journey.

How do I make focaccia more flavorful?

Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor significantly. You can also experiment with toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes.

Can I use whole wheat flour for focaccia?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser loaf. Consider mixing it with all-purpose flour for better texture.

How long does homemade focaccia last?

Homemade focaccia typically lasts about 3 days at room temperature when stored properly, or up to 3 months if frozen.

What is the best way to serve focaccia?

Focaccia is versatile! Serve it as a side with soups or salads, use it as sandwich bread, or enjoy it simply with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Can I customize my focaccia recipe?

Absolutely! You can add various toppings such as cheese, garlic, or vegetables before baking to create unique flavors tailored to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This focaccia recipe offers an easy way to create delicious homemade bread with a golden crust and soft crumb. It’s perfect as a side dish or snack and allows ample room for customization based on personal preferences. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread!