Heavenly herb-flecked focaccia bread recipe for a flavorsome day
Focaccia, a cherished Italian flatbread with ancient Roman roots, is known for its versatility and rich taste. This vegetarian version, fragrant with herbs, offers a heavenly aroma and flavor. It's enjoyed globally as a tasty side or a customizable base for toppings. With its storied past and enduring appeal, focaccia continues to delight. Ready to bake? Check out the recipe!
Gather the following ingredients
For this herb-flecked focaccia, you will need three cups of all-purpose flour, one packet (two and one-quarter teaspoons) of active dry yeast, one tablespoon of sugar, two teaspoons of salt, one cup of warm water, one-quarter cup of olive oil plus more for drizzling, and two tablespoons each of fresh rosemary and thyme leaves. Optional toppings include sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about five minutes or until frothy. Add in half the flour along with two teaspoons of salt and mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a bowl with a light coating of oil, turning it to coat evenly. Cover it with a moist cloth and set it in a warm area to rise. After about one hour, the dough should double in size. Check its readiness by poking: if the indentation rebounds slowly, the dough is perfectly risen and ready for the next step.
Herb infusion and baking
Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to an oiled baking sheet. Stretch it out to your desired thickness then let it rest for another 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Press your fingertips into the dough to create dimples. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme.
Final touches
Bake the focaccia in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra flavor and texture, add optional toppings like sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes before baking. Once golden, remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice. Serve warm to savor the aromatic herbs and rich taste of this delightful Italian bread.