Kenz
Culinary Explorer
Come on have a good food
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) bread flour (you can also use all-purpose flour)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Optional toppings: fresh rosemary sprigs, cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic cloves, etc.
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Mix the Dough:
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Pour in the olive oil and continue to mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can knead the dough using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Lightly oil a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough into the bowl and turn it to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Focaccia:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.
- Press and stretch the dough evenly into a rectangle or oval shape, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for another 15-20 minutes to slightly rise again.
- Add Toppings:
- Use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface of the dough.
- Drizzle the top generously with olive oil. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the dough.
- Optionally, press fresh rosemary sprigs, cherry tomatoes, olives, or garlic cloves into the dough.
- Bake the Focaccia:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve:
- Slice the focaccia and serve warm or at room temperature. It's delicious on its own or with dips like balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to customize your focaccia with different toppings such as caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese.
- Storage: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or warm oven before serving.