Focaccia Bread

Imagine biting into a piece of bread that transports you straight to the charming countryside of Italy, where olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see. The sun-kissed crust crackles under your teeth, while the airy, herb-infused dough melts in your mouth. This is not just any bread—this is focaccia. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, using it as the base of a sandwich, or simply tearing off pieces to enjoy on its own, focaccia bread is the epitome of comfort and gourmet combined. But what makes this recipe truly stand out is its simplicity, its depth of flavor, and its ability to make even the most novice baker feel like a master of the craft. Ready to bake the bread that will impress your guests and your taste buds alike? Let’s dive into the magic of focaccia!

Introduction

Bread is more than sustenance—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and history. Among the vast world of bread, focaccia stands out as an Italian masterpiece that effortlessly combines simplicity with bold, fragrant flavors. Originating from the coastal regions of Liguria, Italy, focaccia has been a beloved staple for centuries. Its rustic charm lies in its adaptability; you can keep it classic with just a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt or turn it into a creative canvas with various herbs, vegetables, or cheeses.

But what really sets focaccia apart is its texture: crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with dimples perfect for capturing pools of rich olive oil. When made with care and a few pantry staples, focaccia transcends its humble beginnings and becomes the star of any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a savory snack, focaccia is a crowd-pleaser every time.

In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make a traditional focaccia that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. You’ll also discover variations, pro tips, and nutritional benefits that make this bread not just delicious but a wholesome addition to your culinary repertoire.

Yield and Total Time

Yield: One large 12×18-inch focaccia (12 servings)
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes rising and baking time)

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt, plus extra for topping
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
• Flaky sea salt, for topping
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sea salt, and activated yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead and rise: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the baking pan: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil onto a 12×18-inch baking sheet. Spread the risen dough out onto the pan, using your fingers to stretch it evenly. Poke deep dimples into the dough with your fingertips, creating small wells for the olive oil to pool.
5. Second rise: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Season the dough: Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil, and sprinkle the fresh rosemary, flaky sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
8. Bake: Place the focaccia in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy around the edges.
9. Serve: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with extra olive oil for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Focaccia

1. Use high-quality olive oil: This is crucial for flavor. Opt for extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness.
2. Let the dough rise fully: Patience is key! Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures a fluffy texture.
3. Don’t skimp on the dimples: The dimples in focaccia help trap olive oil and seasonings, making every bite flavorful.
4. Use fresh herbs: While dried herbs can work, fresh rosemary or thyme elevates the flavor.
5. Add toppings after baking: If you’re adding cheese or tomatoes, consider doing so halfway through baking to prevent burning.
6. Experiment with flavors: Add garlic, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra layers of taste.
7. Adjust water as needed: Humidity and flour type can affect your dough—if it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
8. Rest the dough: After the second rise, let the dough rest in the pan for an extra 10 minutes before baking for better texture.
9. Reheat like a pro: To enjoy the focaccia the next day, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore its crispness.
10. Freeze leftovers: Focaccia freezes beautifully! Wrap in foil and freeze for up to a month.

Substitutions

If you’re out of rosemary, fear not! Focaccia is incredibly versatile. Fresh thyme or sage makes a delightful substitute, offering their own earthy flavors. In fact, you can even get creative with herb blends like herbes de Provence for a more aromatic experience.

Need a gluten-free option? Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. While gluten-free focaccia might not be as fluffy as the original, it can still achieve a satisfying chew with the right mix of flours.

For a lower-carb alternative, consider using almond flour or coconut flour in part. While this will alter the texture significantly, you’ll end up with a denser, more protein-packed bread that pairs well with Mediterranean-style dips like hummus.

In case you don’t have yeast on hand, you can substitute it with baking powder and yogurt. This unconventional approach creates a quick bread version of focaccia, though it won’t have the same chewy texture or height.

Conclusion

Focaccia bread isn’t just a simple recipe—it’s a love letter to the beauty of Italian cuisine. From the aromatic olive oil to the crisp, golden crust, each bite is a celebration of bold, rustic flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of an elegant dinner or snacking on it throughout the day, this bread has a way of bringing joy to the table.

The versatility of focaccia makes it a perfect canvas for your creativity. Change up the herbs, experiment with toppings, or even try different shapes! And don’t forget—sharing is part of the experience. Gather your loved ones, tear into a warm piece, and watch as conversations flow, inspired by the simple pleasure of great food.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making focaccia, the possibilities are endless. Why not dive into other bread recipes or explore more Italian dishes? Stay tuned for more culinary adventures that will ignite your passion for cooking!

Image by: Love & Lemons