Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread Recipe
An Italian-inspired delight, perfect for any occasion, this Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread is an aromatic and flavorful treat. Paired with a rich red wine vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt dip, this focaccia is a must-try for your next meal or gathering.
Recipe Overview
This Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread is an Italian classic that brings together the earthy richness of whole wheat flour with the aromatic and savory notes of fresh rosemary. Focaccia bread, with its light and airy texture, is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of meals. Whether served with olives and olive oil or paired with a bowl of warm soup, this bread will quickly become a family favorite.
Ideal for vegetarian diets, this simple yet delicious bread can be customized with various toppings such as Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, or caramelized onions. It’s also a great make-ahead recipe, as the dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy fresh focaccia every day!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 3 cups |
| Fresh Rosemary, finely chopped | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Honey | 3 tablespoons |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
Preparation Time
- Total Prep Time: 3 hours
- Active Preparation: 30 minutes
- Rising Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time
- Bake Time: 40 minutes
Instructions
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Mix the Dough:
Begin by combining the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Stir together the whole wheat flour, rosemary, salt, honey, and active dry yeast. Once these are well combined, gradually add the olive oil and water. Mix until the dough starts to come together. -
Kneading the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. If you have a stand mixer, use it for this step to save time—knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. If kneading by hand, use your muscles to create a smooth dough. This will give you a great workout while preparing a delicious meal! -
First Rise:
Grease a large bowl with a bit of olive oil. Place the dough into the bowl, covering it with a light-fitting lid or cloth. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. This is a great time to relax, knowing the bread is doing its magic!Pro Tip: You can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 5 days. This means you can bake small portions of bread every day for fresh focaccia all week long!
-
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F). Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a floured baking sheet. Gently pat and stretch the dough into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle. -
Shape and Add Toppings:
Create dimples in the dough by pressing your fingers into the surface. This gives the focaccia its signature texture. Brush the top with a generous amount of olive oil, which will help create a golden, crispy crust. Optionally, sprinkle the dough with Parmesan or mozzarella cheese, or even some thinly sliced onions for extra flavor. -
Bake the Focaccia:
Place the prepared dough in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. The bread should have a slightly chewy interior and a crisp exterior. -
Cool and Serve:
Once the focaccia is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Slice into your desired shape and serve.
Serving Suggestions
The Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to serve it:
- Red Wine Vinaigrette & Olive Oil: Perfect for dipping, this combination enhances the bread’s flavors and adds a Mediterranean touch.
- Tzatziki Yogurt Dip: Serve this with a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip for a lighter accompaniment.
- Cream of Celery Soup: Pair your focaccia with a warm bowl of creamy soup for a comforting meal.
Whether as a starter, a side dish, or part of a charcuterie board, this focaccia will elevate any dining experience. It’s a perfect choice for gatherings, family dinners, or a casual evening snack.
Additional Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can bake small portions of fresh focaccia each day, so you’ll always have freshly baked bread ready for your meal.
- Toppings: While rosemary is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano, or even add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or garlic to the dough for added flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month—just reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
This Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread is not only delicious but also packed with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat. The fresh rosemary adds a fragrant, herbal quality, making each bite a savory delight. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this focaccia bread will bring joy to any meal!
