Delicious Focaccia Recipe
Bring the irresistible taste of Italy to your kitchen with this simple and delicious focaccia recipe! Soft, flavorful, and perfectly golden, this bread is easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this step-by-step guide will help you create a focaccia that’s just like you’d find in an Italian bakery. With tips for perfecting the texture and flavor, you’ll feel like a pro from the very first bite. Don’t miss out, download the recipe now and enjoy the warm, aromatic delight of homemade focaccia!
Ingredients
- 500 grams All-purpose flour
- 350 ml Warm water
- 100 grams Active sourdough starter or active dry yeast
- 10 grams Salt
- 60 ml Olive oil
- To Tasta Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
- to taste Sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, measure out the required amount of flour and add warm water. If you’re using a sourdough starter, ensure it’s active and bubbly. Alternatively, if using yeast, dissolve it in the warm water first and let it sit for a few minutes until frothy. Add the sourdough starter (or yeast mixture) to the bowl along with the salt. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until they form a cohesive dough. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead the Dough: Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. To knead, push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, fold it over, and give it a quarter turn. Repeat this process, adding a little flour if the dough sticks, until it is soft and stretchy. After kneading, place the dough back in the bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise: After the dough has risen, lightly grease a baking sheet (about 9×13 inches) with olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and transfer it to the greased baking sheet. Gently spread the dough out with your fingers, shaping it to fit the pan. Once the dough is evenly spread, cover it again with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to become light and fluffy.
- Prepare for Baking: After the second rise, uncover the dough and use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface. This is a signature characteristic of focaccia that helps hold the toppings and enhances its texture. Drizzle olive oil generously over the surface, ensuring that it pools slightly in the dimples. Finally, sprinkle fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) and a pinch of sea salt over the top for added flavor.
- Bake the Focaccia: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Once the oven is hot, place the baking sheet with the prepared focaccia inside. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s nearly ready. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Enjoy your homemade focaccia warm or at room temperature!