Welcome to the delightful world of lovewithrecipes.com! Today, we’re diving into the art of creating a mouthwatering dish that will transport you straight to the heart of Europe – presenting our Crispy Olive & Herb Focaccia 🌿🍞. This rustic bread, adorned with aromatic herbs and olives, is the perfect companion for a cozy brunch or any occasion that calls for a touch of European flair. 🇪🇺
Crispy Olive & Herb Focaccia
Category: Breads
Keywords: European, Brunch, < 15 Mins
Servings: 10
Yield: 1 Focaccia
Calories (per serving): 168.7
Fat Content (per serving): 4.2g
Saturated Fat Content (per serving): 0.6g
Cholesterol Content (per serving): 0mg
Sodium Content (per serving): 79.6mg
Carbohydrate Content (per serving): 29.2g
Fiber Content (per serving): 2.1g
Sugar Content (per serving): 0.1g
Protein Content (per serving): 3.8g
Ingredients:
- 2 dried yeast
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 fresh sage leaves
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornflour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: Begin by stirring the dried yeast into a large mixing bowl with the water and let it proof for 10 minutes. This step ensures that your focaccia will have that perfect rise.
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Infuse with Flavor: Stir in the olive oil, fresh rosemary, sage, olives, and minced garlic. Using a wooden spoon, gradually mix in the flours and salt, stirring until the dough reaches a thick and smooth consistency.
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Knead to Perfection: Take the dough to the next level by kneading it by hand for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes firm and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled container, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise until doubled in size.
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Shape and Rise: Turn the risen dough onto an oiled 10 1/2″ X 15 1/2″ baking pan and stretch it to fit. If it resists, give it a 10-minute rest and try again. Cover it with a towel and let it half-rise for about 30 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld.
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Preheat and Dimple: Thirty minutes before the baking extravaganza, preheat your oven to 400°F. Just before baking, add your personal touch by dimpling the top of the dough with your fingertips and sprinkling it with extra salt and 2 tsp of olive oil.
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Golden Bake: Into the oven it goes! Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the focaccia turns a glorious golden hue, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Cool and Enjoy: Slide your masterpiece off the baking sheet onto a cooling rack. Let it cool for a few minutes before savoring this creation, either warm or at room temperature. 🌬️
Variations:
For a sweet twist, try the Focaccia Dolce variation. Substitute 2 oz raisins and 1 oz pine nuts for the olives, herbs, and garlic. Soak the raisins in warm water for 30 minutes before using and toast the pine nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
There you have it, a journey through the steps of crafting the perfect Crispy Olive & Herb Focaccia. This recipe is not just a guide; it’s an invitation to infuse your kitchen with the warmth of European flavors and create memories around the table. Enjoy the culinary adventure! 🌿🍞✨
