Focaccia Bread Recipe

Dive into the world of homemade bread with this simple yet delightful focaccia recipe. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe will guide you through creating a soft, aromatic, and versatile bread that serves as a wonderful base for a variety of toppings.

Ingredients:

• 470ml (approximately 2 cups) of lukewarm water
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, plus additional for greasing
• 7 grams (about 2 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
• 560 grams (roughly 4 cups) of bread flour

Optional Toppings:

Feel free to customize your focaccia with toppings that suit your taste. Some popular options include rosemary, cherry tomatoes, olives, thinly sliced garlic, sea salt flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm water and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add the salt and the tablespoon of olive oil. Gradually incorporate the bread flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for this step.
3. First Rise: Lightly oil a separate large bowl and transfer the dough into it. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Generously oil a baking tray or cast iron skillet with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough to the prepared tray or skillet, spreading it out evenly. If the dough springs back, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.
5. Add Toppings: Gently press your chosen toppings into the surface of the dough. Then, make dimples in the dough with your fingertips. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
6. Second Rise: Let the dough rest for another 20 minutes to puff up slightly.
7. Bake: Place the tray or skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia as a side to your favorite meals, as a base for sandwiches, or simply on its own, savored with a drizzle of olive oil.