Focaccia

Making focaccia is easier than you think. With our recipe, you can create authentic Italian focaccia bread in as little as three hours. This recipe has been tested by hundreds of followers here and on social media, resulting in a focaccia with a crisp and golden crust and a soft, airy crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this delicious bread pairs well with soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up homemade focaccia without any fuss.
• Versatile Topping Options: Customize your focaccia with various toppings like herbs, cheese, or vegetables to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 pieces, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family meals.
• Deliciously Crispy Crust: Enjoy the delightful contrast of a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior that everyone will love.
• Great Aroma: The combination of olive oil and fresh herbs fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Having the right equipment can streamline the process and ensure excellent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Baking pan
• Plastic wrap or damp cloth
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
• Baking Pan: A good quality pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crust.

Ingredients

To make this delicious focaccia, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1¾ cups lukewarm water
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (+ 2 tablespoons to grease the baking pan)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon salt (+ flaky salt optional)
• 3 pinches rosemary (optional to taste; fresh or dry)

How to Make Focaccia

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

1. Measure out your ingredients for the dough.
2. In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, instant dry yeast, and sugar. Whisk together and let it sit for 30 seconds until the yeast fully dissolves. If it doesn’t dissolve completely, start over with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together flour and salt.
2. Add the yeast-water mixture to the flour mixture. Stir with a sturdy wooden spoon until you have a wet, sticky dough (about 1 minute).
3. Incorporate extra virgin olive oil into the dough by stirring for another minute.

Step 3: Choose Quick or Slow Proofing

1. For Quick Proofing (1.5 to 2 hours): Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and place it in a slightly warm oven until it doubles in volume.
2. For Slow Proofing (8 to 24 hours): Cover with plastic wrap and let it mature slowly in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Remove from fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for 2 to 3 hours before proceeding.

Step 4: Folding

After proofing:
1. Fold the dough over itself about 20 to 40 times from outside to inside while still in the bowl.
2. Stop folding once you feel that the dough has tightened up.

Step 5: Final Proofing

1. Grease your baking pan with olive oil (about 2–3 tablespoons).
2. Place the dough into the pan and spread it using two spoons dipped in water.
3. Cover again with a damp cloth and let it proof in a warm area for about 45 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Step 6: Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, water, and salt until dissolved.
2. Dip your fingers in this mixture and press dimples across the surface of the focaccia.
3. Pour any remaining oil-water mixture over top, letting it seep into dimples; add rosemary if desired.

Step 7: Bake

1. Once your oven is ready at 450°F (230°C), bake your focaccia on medium-low rack for about 20 to 25 minutes.
2. Check for golden brown color on top; if thick, it may take closer to 25 minutes.
3. Allow cooling for at least five minutes before removing from pan, slicing, and serving.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia!

How to Serve Focaccia

Focaccia is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as an accompaniment to your main dish or as a flavorful snack, there are plenty of ways to serve this delightful Italian bread.

As a Side Dish

• Serve focaccia warm alongside your favorite soup or salad for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

With Dips

• Pair focaccia with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, enhancing its rich taste with tangy notes.

For Sandwiches

• Use slices of focaccia as the base for sandwiches, layering with fresh vegetables, cheeses, or your choice of protein for a tasty meal.

Toasted with Toppings

• Slice and toast focaccia, then top with spreads like hummus or avocado for an easy and delicious appetizer.

As a Pizza Base

• Transform focaccia into a pizza by adding sauce, cheese, and toppings before baking it again until bubbly and golden.

Breakfast Delight

• Enjoy focaccia slices topped with scrambled eggs or smoked salmon for a hearty breakfast option.

How to Perfect Focaccia

To make sure your focaccia turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. Each one can help elevate your homemade bread experience.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile of your focaccia.

• Don’t Rush Proofing: Allow ample time for the dough to rise. Proper proofing creates that airy structure you desire in focaccia.

• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is at the right temperature before baking. A hot oven helps achieve that crispy crust.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try different herbs or toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or olives to customize your focaccia to your liking.

• Keep It Moist: If your dough feels dry during preparation, add a little more water. This will help keep the crumb soft and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Focaccia

Focaccia pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside this Italian delight:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the warm bread.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs provide a colorful and nutritious side that works well with focaccia.

3. Pesto Pasta: A light pasta tossed in pesto sauce enhances the Italian theme while balancing the rich flavors of the bread.

4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs and spices makes for a satisfying pairing with the fluffy texture of focaccia.

5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, cucumbers, and feta adds freshness and crunch next to soft focaccia slices.

6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served warm makes for an indulgent side that pairs perfectly when using focaccia as dippers.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a hearty dish that complements the lightness of focaccia nicely.

8. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb option that balances nicely against the rich flavors of the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making focaccia is a rewarding experience, but beginners often encounter some common issues. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect yeast activation: Ensure the yeast is fully dissolved in lukewarm water with sugar. If it doesn’t bubble up, you might need to start with fresh yeast.
• Overworking the dough: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir just enough to combine ingredients for a wet and sticky dough.
• Skipping the proofing stage: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for airy focaccia. Don’t rush this step; it’s what gives the bread its texture.
• Not greasing the pan sufficiently: A well-greased pan helps achieve a golden crust and prevents sticking. Use olive oil generously when preparing your baking surface.
• Ignoring the baking temperature: Baking at the right temperature ensures a crispy top and properly cooked interior. Preheat your oven thoroughly before placing the focaccia inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Focaccia can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Freezing Focaccia

• • Duration: You can freeze focaccia for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Focaccia

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm slices on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making focaccia bread:

How do I know my focaccia is done?

The focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped from underneath.

Can I customize my focaccia toppings?

Absolutely! You can add garlic, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese to suit your taste.

What flour works best for focaccia?

All-purpose flour works well, but bread flour can provide even better texture due to its higher protein content.

How long does homemade focaccia last?

Homemade focaccia lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.

Is this focaccia recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This easy focaccia recipe is perfect for beginners and yields delicious results with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

This homemade focaccia recipe offers an easy way to create delicious Italian bread that impresses family and friends. Its soft crumb and crisp crust make it perfect as a side dish or base for sandwiches. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or toppings!