Herbed Focaccia Bread Recipe
Focaccia is a staple in Italian cuisine, beloved for its rich flavor, soft texture, and simple yet delectable ingredients. This Herbed Focaccia Bread recipe offers a beautiful twist on the classic, combining the warm flavors of mixed herbs and garlic with the richness of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The best part? This recipe uses Urban Platter Instant Dry Yeast, so there’s no need for proofing, making the bread-making process easy and efficient without sacrificing taste or authenticity. Perfect for any occasion, this focaccia can be served as a side dish or paired with a bowl of soup for a wholesome meal.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 100 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 120 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk (warm) | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mixed Herbs (Dried) | 2 tablespoons (oregano, rosemary, parsley) |
| Garlic | To taste (optional) |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Potassium | 150mg |
| Sugars | 4g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the milk is warm but not hot, as it helps activate the yeast.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the All Purpose Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, Active Dry Yeast, Mixed Herbs, and Salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
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Create the Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the warm milk, Honey, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Using a spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients into a dough. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water until you get a firm, smooth texture.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 to 10 minutes until it is elastic and smooth.
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First Rise: Once the dough is well-kneaded, place it back into the bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
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Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a flat baking tray with olive oil and lightly dust it with rice flour (or regular flour if preferred).
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Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a lightly dusted surface and flatten it with your fingers until it reaches the size of your baking tray.
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Add the Toppings: Pinch the dough lightly with your fingers to create small depressions in the surface. Brush the top of the dough generously with more olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining Mixed Herbs. Optionally, you can add minced garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
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Bake the Focaccia: Place the dough onto the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and crisp on the edges.
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Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice the focaccia and serve as a side dish with a light soup like Light and Creamy Broccoli Soup, or enjoy it on its own with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Tips & Variations
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the herbs according to your preferences. You can experiment with thyme, sage, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Texture: For a softer focaccia, reduce the baking time slightly. For a crisper crust, you can leave it in a bit longer.
- Garlic Lovers: If you adore garlic, you can add garlic powder to the dough itself or roast fresh garlic and spread it over the focaccia before baking.
- Storage: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its delicious flavor and texture.
This Herbed Focaccia Bread recipe is perfect for anyone who loves homemade bread but wants to skip the time-consuming steps of proofing yeast. Its airy texture and bold, herby flavors make it a perfect side dish for any meal, whether served with soup, salad, or as a part of a festive spread. Enjoy the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious recipe!
