How to Make Perfect Focaccia
Focaccia, a delightful Italian bread with a crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior, is a favorite among bread enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, mastering the art of making perfect focaccia can be an incredibly rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering focaccia that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Additional olive oil for greasing the baking sheet
– Coarse salt for sprinkling on top
Preparation
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, olive oil, and black pepper. Stir until a dough begins to form.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shaping and Preparing the Focaccia
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Grease a baking sheet with additional olive oil and set it aside.
3. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts and roll each part into a 12-inch circle.
4. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto the greased baking sheet, leaving a little space between the two pieces.
5. Use your fingers to dimple the dough, creating a pattern of indentations. This will help the focaccia to rise and give it a unique texture.
6. Drizzle the focaccia with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt, dried rosemary, and dried thyme.
Baking and Serving
1. Bake the focaccia for 10 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the focaccia is cooked through.
2. Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your homemade focaccia with your favorite toppings, such as fresh herbs, olives, or slices of prosciutto.
Making perfect focaccia is an art that takes practice, but with this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and authentic Italian bread. Buon appetito!
