Easy Homemade Focaccia Recipe

 Focaccia is a classic Italian flatbread known for its light, airy texture and deliciously crisp crust. It's incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of toppings and seasonings. Whether you’re new to bread-making or an experienced baker, this homemade focaccia recipe will guide you through creating a delicious loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

Description

Focaccia is a type of flatbread that originated in Italy and is closely related to pizza dough. However, it has a more substantial, bread-like texture. The dough is enriched with olive oil, which gives the bread its distinctive flavor and golden color. Focaccia can be enjoyed on its own, dipped in olive oil, or used as a base for sandwiches. With a soft interior and a slightly crunchy exterior, focaccia is a favorite among bread lovers.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ¾ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

For topping:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (or any herb of your choice)
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, garlic cloves, or caramelized onions for additional toppings

Method

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and ¼ cup of olive oil.
   • Mix until a rough dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on medium speed for 8 minutes.

2. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

3. Shape the Dough:

   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a well-oiled baking sheet or a 9x13-inch pan. Gently stretch and press the dough to fit the pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread out.

4. Second Rise:

   • Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough is rising.

5. Add Toppings and Bake:

   • After the second rise, use your fingers to make deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle the dough with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, and scatter fresh rosemary leaves on top. Add any additional toppings if desired.
   • Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

6. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the focaccia to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Variations & Tips

1. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage. You can also mix herbs in the dough for extra flavor.

2. Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the top before baking for a cheesy twist.

3. Garlic Focaccia: Press thinly sliced garlic cloves into the dough before baking to infuse the bread with a rich garlic flavor.

4. Sweet Focaccia: For a sweet variation, omit the herbs and salt. Top with sugar, cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey for a delightful dessert bread.

5. Tips for Best Results:

   • Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
   • Ensure the water is the right temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
   • Don’t skip the dimpling step; it helps create the characteristic texture of focaccia.

Conclusion

Making homemade focaccia is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious, versatile bread perfect for any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy method, this recipe is great for both beginner and seasoned bakers. Try different toppings and variations to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious results of your homemade focaccia bread!