Easy Focaccia Bread

Focaccia is one of Italy’s most beloved breads, known for its soft, airy texture and golden, crispy crust.

There are many types of focaccia across Italy, each with unique characteristics. The Genovese focaccia from Liguria is thin, lightly salted, and and drizzled with a brine made of extra virgin olive oil, while the Pugliese focaccia from Puglia is often thicker, with cherry tomatoes baked into the dough. This recipe, however, keeps things simple, focusing on an easy-to-make, classic focaccia that captures the essence of Italian flavor without complex steps or ingredients. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike!

INGREDIENTS:

• 400g Flour, type "0" 
• 280g Lukewarm water
• 2g Dry active yeast
• 1 tsp Sugar
• 20g Extra virgin olive oil
• 8g Sea salt
• Olive oil, coarse salt, and rosemary for topping

INSTRUCTIONS:

1 Dissolve the sugar and yeast in lukewarm water and set aside.

2 In a bowl combine the salt and oil with the flour.

3 Add the yeast mixture and stir until the dough begins to come together.

4 Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 3-4 minutes.

5 Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel and a lid, and let it rise in a warm place for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6 Once the dough has risen, fold the dough a bit more and place it on an oiled baking sheet. Let it rise, cover with a towel, for another 2 hours.

7 After the second rise, drizzle the surface of the dough generously with olive oil and use your fingers to press deep dimples across the surface of the dough. 

8 Sprinkle with sea salt, rosemary, and any other toppings you like.

9 Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the edges are crisp. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

Serving Suggestions:

Focaccia is wonderful served warm on its own, dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or used as a base for sandwiches. It’s also great alongside soups, salads, or pasta dishes.

Tips:

• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding thinly sliced onions, garlic, or even vegan cheese for added flavor.
• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze to enjoy later.

This easy focaccia recipe is perfect for those looking to make delicious, bakery-quality bread at home with minimal effort. Inspired by Italy’s traditional focaccias, it offers a taste of authentic flavors in a simplified, approachable way.

VIDEO RECIPE: