Focaccia Bread Recipe
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Description: Delight in the rich, flavorful goodness of this homemade Focaccia, perfect for sharing with family and friends. This recipe from lovewithrecipes.com will guide you through creating a beautiful, fluffy bread that’s a staple in Italian cuisine.
Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
Keywords: Breads, European, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 317.9 |
| Total Fat | 7.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 392.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 53.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugars | 0.2 g |
| Protein | 8.5 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 1/4 cups | Unbleached flour |
| 2 tsp | Fast rising yeast |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 3 tbsp | Extra virgin olive oil |
| 1 1/4 cups | Warm water |
| Sea salt (for topping) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough
Begin by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the unbleached flour, fast rising yeast, and salt together. Use a wooden spoon to thoroughly combine these dry ingredients until evenly mixed. -
Add Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. While stirring the mixture with the wooden spoon, gradually incorporate the warm water, ensuring that all the flour absorbs the liquid and a cohesive dough forms. Be mindful that the amount of water needed may vary slightly, so don’t hesitate to adjust as necessary. -
Kneading the Dough
Once your dough has formed, gather it into a ball and transfer it to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic, ensuring that it is no longer sticky to the touch. -
First Rise
Lightly oil a warm bowl and place the kneaded dough inside, turning it a few times to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, which typically takes between 45 to 75 minutes. -
Preheat the Oven
While your dough is rising, position an oven rack in the lower part of the oven and preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This preparation is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown crust. -
Prepare the Baking Pan
Take a 10×15-inch baking pan and generously brush it with olive oil. Set it aside for later use. -
Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it back to the floured surface and knead it a few more times. Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes. Using your palms, shape the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 4×8 inches. -
Transfer to the Baking Pan
Carefully place the shaped dough into the prepared baking pan. Using your fingers, stretch and pat the dough so that it fits the pan evenly, reaching all corners. -
Second Rise
Cover the pan with plastic wrap again and allow the dough to rise until it is about 1 inch thick, which will take around 30 minutes. -
Create Dimples
Once the second rise is complete, use your fingertips to create ‘dimple’ indentations in the dough, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart. This step not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the texture of the bread. -
Add Toppings
Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt over the top. For an extra flavor kick, feel free to add roasted red peppers or other toppings of your choice at this stage. -
Bake the Focaccia
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the focaccia for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until it is beautifully golden brown and aromatic. -
Cooling and Serving
After baking, remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes in the pan. Once slightly cooled, cut the bread into squares and serve it warm, savoring the delightful flavors and textures you’ve just created. -
Enjoy
This focaccia is perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a base for sandwiches. Its versatility and taste make it an exceptional addition to any meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this focaccia recipe promises to impress everyone at your table with its deliciousness and rustic charm. Happy baking!
