Focaccia - The Classic Italian-Style Bread with Olive Oil and Herbs
Are you a bread lover? If so, you've probably heard of focaccia, the traditional Italian flatbread that's a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. Focaccia is a simple, flavorful bread that's perfect for any occasion, from brunch to a casual dinner party. And the best part is, it's incredibly easy to make at home!
In this recipe, we'll show you how to make a classic focaccia bread with just a few simple ingredients, including olive oil and herbs. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, you'll love how easy it is to whip up a batch of this delicious bread.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp of sugar
- 1 tbsp of active dry yeast
- 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F)
- 1/4 cup of olive oil (plus extra for brushing and drizzling)
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp of dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp of dried rosemary
- Sea salt for sprinkling on top (optional)
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by adding the flour, sugar, and yeast to a large mixing bowl. Mix them together using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment.
Next, add in the warm water, olive oil, and salt, and mix everything together until the dough comes together into a smooth, elastic ball. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and leave it in a warm, draft-free place to rise for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the topping. Combine the dried herbs in a small bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and transfer it to a lightly oiled 9x13 inch baking pan. Use your fingertips to press the dough evenly into the pan, making small indentations all over the surface.
Brush the top of the dough with a generous amount of olive oil, making sure to coat the entire surface. Sprinkle the dried herbs evenly over the top of the dough, pressing them down lightly with your fingertips.
If desired, sprinkle a little bit of sea salt over the top of the bread for an extra burst of flavor.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for another 15 minutes while you preheat your oven to 425°F.
Step 4: Bake the Focaccia
Remove the cloth from the dough and place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until it's golden brown and crispy on top.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bread cool for afew minutes before slicing it into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with a little bit of extra olive oil if desired.
Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Focaccia
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Focaccia is a simple bread, which means the quality of the ingredients you use is crucial. Be sure to use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place
To help the dough rise properly, it's important to let it rest in a warm, draft-free place. This can be your oven (turned off) or a warm, sunny spot in your kitchen.
Don't Overwork the Dough
When kneading the dough, be careful not to overwork it. Overworked dough can become tough and chewy, so stop kneading as soon as it becomes soft and pliable.
Be Generous with the Olive Oil
Olive oil is a key ingredient in focaccia, both for flavor and texture. Be sure to use plenty of olive oil when brushing and drizzling the bread, as this will help it become crispy and golden brown on top.
Experiment with Toppings
While the classic herb and olive oil topping is delicious, don't be afraid to experiment with other toppings as well. Some popular options include caramelized onions, roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
The Best Focaccia Recipe for Bread Lovers Everywhere
If you're looking for a simple yet delicious bread recipe, look no further than focaccia. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a batch of this classic Italian flatbread that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving it as a side dish, using it as a base for sandwiches, or simply snacking on it with a bit of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, you're sure to love the flavorful, crispy texture of this delicious bread.
So why not give this recipe a try and discover the joy of baking your own focaccia at home? With a little bit of practice, you'll soon be an expert at making this classic bread, and your friends and family will be begging you for the recipe!
Post a Comment