Embark on a journey to the heart of Italian cuisine with our delectable focaccia bread recipe. Originating from the picturesque shores of the Mediterranean, focaccia is a beloved flatbread known for its irresistible combination of airy crumb and crisp, golden crust, all generously adorned with fragrant olive oil, aromatic herbs, and a sprinkle of sea salt. In this culinary adventure, we will guide you through the art of creating this rustic Italian delicacy, inviting you to savor the harmonious interplay of flavors and textures that make focaccia a timeless favorite. Whether enjoyed as a delightful appetizer, sandwich bread, or simply on its own, our recipe will transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked streets of Italy with every delectable bite.

Soft focaccia bread recipe

Focaccia bread is a traditional Italian flatbread that is renowned for its distinctive texture and flavor. It is characterized by its soft and airy interior, often with irregular air pockets, and a crisp, golden-brown crust. Focaccia is typically seasoned with generous amounts of high-quality olive oil, coarse sea salt, and various toppings such as fresh herbs, garlic, olives, tomatoes, or even cheese. The toppings and flavorings can vary regionally and based on personal preferences, making focaccia a versatile and customizable bread. It is commonly served as an appetizer, side dish, or even used as a base for sandwiches, showcasing its delicious simplicity and versatility in Italian cuisine and beyond.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 30

Cook Time 25

Total Time 1 55

Course Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Fresh rosemary or other herbs (optional for topping)

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients.
Mix until a dough forms, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly greased baking sheet or a rectangular baking dish. Press the dough out to fit the shape of the pan.
Use your fingertips to create dimples in the dough's surface. Drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top. Add fresh rosemary or other herbs if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
emove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade focaccia bread as an appetizer, a side dish, or as a base for sandwiches. It's best when served warm and fresh from the oven!

SOURCE: MY RECIPE JOINT

Video

Notes

One important thing to note when making focaccia bread is the quality of your olive oil. Since olive oil is a prominent flavor in focaccia, using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil will greatly enhance the taste of your bread. Look for a fruity and robust olive oil that you enjoy the flavor of, as it will shine through in the final product. Additionally, drizzle a generous amount of olive oil on top of the dough before baking to achieve that signature glossy and flavorful crust.

Nutrition

Serving: 100g

Keyword Focaccia

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!