Description
This classic Italian focaccia recipe yields a golden, fluffy, and flavorful bread infused with garlic, rosemary, and oregano. Perfect as a side or for sandwiches, this easy recipe uses instant yeast and minimal ingredients to create a fragrant, herb-infused focaccia that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
Topping Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (to drizzle onto the pan)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes (or kosher salt)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped oregano
- Additional olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a 9" x 13" (22cm x 33cm) baking pan, coating the surface to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, all-purpose flour, and yeast. Beat the mixture at high speed with an electric mixer for 60 seconds until the batter is well combined and slightly sticky.
- First Rise: Transfer the sticky dough batter into the prepared oiled pan. Cover the pan with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 60 minutes, until it has puffed and nearly doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Poke the Dough: After rising, gently poke the dough all over with your index finger to create dimples that help hold the olive oil and herbs, contributing to the bread’s signature texture.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle the dough lightly with additional olive oil, then evenly sprinkle with sea salt flakes, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped oregano for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Bake the Focaccia: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until the bread turns golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out of the pan onto a cooling rack. Cut into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature for maximum flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- For best texture, use warm water around 100°F (38°C) to activate the yeast properly.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs with dried ones if fresh is not available, but reduce the quantity to about half.
- You can add other toppings such as olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions for variety.
- Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
