Authentic Italian Focaccia Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

500 grams of strong white bread flour
2 teaspoons of sea salt
1 sachet of dried yeast (7 grams)
80 milliliters of extra virgin olive oil
300 milliliters of warm water
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Make a well in the center.
In the well, pour the olive oil and warm water. Mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and leave in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius (425 degrees Fahrenheit). With your fingers, poke deep holes all over the dough. Press the rosemary sprigs into some of the holes, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Large bowl - For mixing and kneading the dough.
Floured surface - To knead and shape the dough.
Greased bowl - To let the dough rise in a warm place.
Damp cloth - To cover the bowl and keep the dough moist during rising.
Oven - To bake the focaccia bread.
Baking tray - To place the dough on for baking.
Fingers - To poke holes in the dough before baking.

Recipe variations

Replace the rosemary with other herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil.
Add toppings like sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions before baking.
Try using whole wheat flour instead of white flour for a healthier option.
Add grated Parmesan or other types of cheese to the dough or sprinkle it on top before baking.
For a garlic lover's version, brush the dough with garlic-infused olive oil before baking.
Make a sweet variation by adding dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Create a focaccia sandwich by slicing it horizontally and adding your favorite fillings like roasted vegetables, cheese, or deli meats.
For a vegan option, omit the dairy products such as cheese and use plant-based substitutes.
Experiment with different types of flours like spelt, rye, or gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Recipe overview

This Focaccia Bread recipe will guide you through the process of making this Italian classic at home. With its crisp exterior and soft, airy interior, this bread is perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as part of an antipasto spread. The distinctive dimples on the surface hold pockets of olive oil and salt, which give the bread its characteristic flavor and texture. Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant herbal note. This is a straightforward bread recipe, suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours on this recipe, with an additional hour for the dough to rise. Happy baking!

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for bread flour. However, the texture of the focaccia bread may be slightly different.
Can I use instant yeast instead of dried yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of dried yeast. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How can I tell if the dough has risen enough? The dough should approximately double in size during the rising process, which usually takes about 1 hour. You can also check by lightly pressing the dough with your finger – if it springs back slowly, it is ready.
Can I add other toppings to the focaccia bread? Absolutely! Focaccia is versatile, and you can add various toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, onions, or cheese before baking.
Can I freeze the focaccia bread? Yes, you can freeze the baked focaccia bread. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix and knead the dough.
Baking Sheet - A flat baking sheet to place the shaped dough on.
Greased Bowl - A bowl to allow the dough to rise in a warm place.
Damp Cloth - A cloth to cover the dough while it rises, keeping it moist.
Flour - To sprinkle on the surface for kneading and prevent sticking.
Olive Oil - Used in the dough and for drizzling on top before baking.
Rosemary Sprigs - Fresh rosemary sprigs to press into the dough for added flavor.
Coarse Sea Salt - Used for sprinkling on top of the dough before baking.
Oven - To preheat and bake the focaccia bread.
Cooling Rack - A rack to cool the baked bread before slicing and serving.

Origin stories

Focaccia bread is deeply embedded in the culinary tradition of Italy and is believed to have originated with the Etruscans or Ancient Greeks before the Roman times. This bread, simple in its ingredients yet rich in its flavors, derives its name from the Latin word "focus" meaning "hearth," highlighting its traditional method of baking over the hearth. Different regions in Italy have their unique variations, with some adding herbs, olives, or even grapes to their recipes. One of the most famous is Focaccia di Recco from Liguria, which is filled with cheese. What makes focaccia truly special is the versatility that it offers. Enjoy it as an appetizer, a side dish to a hearty stew, or even use it as a base for pizza. It's a humble reminder of the comforting warmth of Italian kitchens.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.