Focaccia is a popular Italian bread known for its rich flavor, soft texture, and crispy crust. It’s often enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to a variety of meals. One of the most traditional versions of focaccia is made with fresh rosemary, which adds an earthy, aromatic flavor that complements the bread’s simplicity. Here’s how to make a traditional Italian focaccia with fresh rosemary:
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (about 2-3 sprigs)
- Coarse sea salt (for topping)
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (optional, but helpful)
- Baking sheet (preferably 9×13 inches)
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes. The yeast should start to bubble and foam, which means it’s active and ready to use.
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture, along with ¼ cup of olive oil. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form.
If using a stand mixer, knead the dough with the dough hook on medium speed for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10-12 minutes until the dough is soft but not sticky.
3. First Rise:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
While the dough is rising, prepare your baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the surface to prevent sticking. You can also rub the oil with a paper towel to create an even coating.
5. Shape the Focaccia:
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it onto the prepared baking sheet and gently stretch it to fit the sheet’s size. You don’t need to be too precise here; just spread it out evenly.
6. Second Rise:
Cover the dough on the baking sheet with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise again for about 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Add Toppings:
After the second rise, the dough will be soft and slightly puffed. Use your fingers to dimple the surface of the dough. This is a signature feature of focaccia, helping to create pockets for the oil and toppings to seep into.
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the dough. Then, scatter the fresh rosemary leaves evenly over the top. You can either pull the rosemary off the sprigs or leave small sprigs intact. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the dough for a nice texture contrast.
8. 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 has a slightly crisp crust. You can also check the bottom of the bread to ensure it’s browned and cooked through.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack. It’s best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Slice it into squares or rectangles and serve with extra olive oil for dipping, or enjoy it as is.
Tips for Perfect Focaccia:
- Use high-quality olive oil: Since olive oil is a key ingredient in focaccia, using extra virgin olive oil can elevate the flavor of the bread.
- Don’t rush the rise: Letting the dough rise slowly enhances the flavor and texture of the bread. Ensure that the dough is in a warm, draft-free area for the best results.
- Experiment with toppings: While rosemary is traditional, you can also try other toppings like olives, garlic, onions, or cherry tomatoes.
- Bake on a hot stone: If you have a pizza stone or baking stone, consider preheating it in the oven and baking the focaccia on it. This helps create a crispier bottom crust.
This traditional Italian focaccia with fresh rosemary is a perfect balance of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, it will surely impress your family and guests with its aroma and taste.