Imagine the aroma of freshly baked Olive and Herb Focaccia wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone around with its golden crust and savory toppings. This Italian classic is not just a bread; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, enhanced by the richness of olives and the fragrant herbs. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this focaccia will surely steal the show. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have you baking like a pro in no time!
Prep Time: 1 hrs
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 Focaccia
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 300ml water
- 10g salt
- 7g dry yeast
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup olives
- 1 tbsp mixed herbs
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of all-purpose flour and 10g of salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- In a separate bowl, activate the yeast by mixing 7g of dry yeast with 300ml of warm water (about 37°C or 98°F). Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Once the yeast is activated, pour it into the flour mixture along with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until the mixture starts to come together.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet or a large baking dish. Use your fingers to stretch and press the dough into a rectangle or circle, about 1-2 cm thick.
- Using your fingers, make deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top, allowing it to pool in the dimples.
- Chop the olives (if they are whole) and sprinkle them evenly over the surface of the dough. Then, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of mixed herbs over the top for added flavor.
- Let the dough rest for another 15-20 minutes while the oven continues to preheat. This will allow it to rise slightly again.
- Once the oven is ready, bake the focaccia for about 20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with additional olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of your focaccia will greatly benefit from using a good quality extra virgin olive oil. It enhances the overall taste and gives a beautiful finish when drizzled on top before serving.
- Experiment with Toppings: While olives and mixed herbs are delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a unique twist.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or cover it with a warm towel to create a cozy space for the dough to double in size.
- Dimple it Well: When creating dimples in the dough, don’t be shy! Press firmly to create deep pockets that will hold the olive oil and toppings, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Check for Doneness: The focaccia is ready when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you're unsure, give it an extra minute or two in the oven.
- Serve Warm: Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve it warm or at room temperature, drizzled with more olive oil or balsamic vinegar for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
