Focaccia recipe

Focaccia traditional Italian recipe

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Focaccia recipe

Focaccia is a classic Italian flatbread known for its soft, airy texture and savory flavor. Here’s a recipe for making delicious focaccia at home:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Topping:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • Sea salt or flaky salt, for sprinkling
  • Optional: sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or other toppings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5 minutes.

2. First Rise:

  1. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Focaccia:

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Grease a large baking sheet (about 13×18 inches) with olive oil.
  2. Spread the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to spread and stretch the dough to fit the baking sheet, creating dimples with your fingertips as you go. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes and try again.

4. Second Rise:

  1. Let the Dough Rise Again: Cover the dough loosely with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.

5. Prepare the Topping:

  1. Make Garlic Oil: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil with the minced garlic and chopped rosemary.

6. Bake the Focaccia:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Add Topping: Brush the garlic oil evenly over the risen dough, making sure to get some oil into the dimples. Sprinkle with sea salt or flaky salt and add any additional toppings you desire.
  3. Bake: Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

7. Serve:

  • Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, as a side dish, or for making sandwiches.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia!

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