why make this recipe

Homemade focaccia bread is a delightful treat that is worth making from scratch. It is soft, fluffy, and filled with flavor. Making focaccia at home allows you to enjoy it fresh out of the oven, giving you a taste that store-bought bread simply cannot match. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even use it for sandwiches.

how to make Homemade Focaccia Bread

Ingredients:

4 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
Coarse sea salt for topping

Directions:

In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, add bread flour and salt.
Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
Knead for about 5 minutes, then place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 2 hours.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
After rising, punch down the dough and spread it onto a greased baking sheet.
Dimple the surface with your fingers and drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle rosemary and coarse salt on top.
Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Homemade Focaccia Bread

Homemade focaccia bread is best served warm. You can slice it and enjoy it on its own, or pair it with dips like olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It also tastes great with soups, salads, or used as sandwich bread.

how to store Homemade Focaccia Bread

To store focaccia, let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze the focaccia by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag.

tips to make Homemade Focaccia Bread

Make sure your water is warm but not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast.
Knead the dough until it becomes smooth but avoid over-kneading.
For extra flavor, add other toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or garlic.
If you want a crispier crust, bake it on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone.

variation

You can experiment with flavors by adding different herbs, such as thyme or oregano. Incorporating cheese, like mozzarella or parmesan, before baking can also enhance the taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may not be as chewy.

2. How do I know when my focaccia bread is done?
It should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when you tap it.

3. Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes, you can add toppings like olives or vegetables before baking to customize your focaccia.