Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 375ml (1 1/2 cups) warm water (about 38°C/100°F)
- 80ml (1/3 cup) extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp (about 7g) fresh rosemary leaves, roughly chopped
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt or flaky salt, for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until slightly foamy. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture, add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir the ingredients with a wooden spoon or use an electric mixer with a dough hook to form a sticky dough.
Step 2: Kneading and Rising
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shaping the Focaccia
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled baking sheet or pan. Using your fingertips, press it into a rustic rectangle, dimpling the surface as you go. Let the dough rest for another 30 minutes for a second rise.
Step 4: Infusing with Garlic and Herbs
Mix the minced garlic and chopped rosemary with a bit of olive oil. Gently brush this mixture over the entire surface of the dough. Sprinkle sea salt evenly across the top.
Step 5: Baking
Drizzle a bit more olive oil across the top and bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The surface should look crispy, and the edges should have a nice crunch.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the focaccia cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Cut into squares or wedges and serve warm. This focaccia pairs excellently with a variety of soups, salads, and as a side for pasta dishes.
Conclusion
Congratulations on bringing the sweet aroma of freshly baked Garlic Herb Focaccia into your home! This simple yet artisanal bread celebrates the rustic charm of Italian cuisine, making it versatile and cherished in any household. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a family meal or serving it to impress your guests, this focaccia is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and toppings to make it truly your own. Buon Appetito!
