Focaccia. How to prepare it so that it is soft, fluffy and full of flavor?
Focaccia is a true culinary experience. With its unique taste and texture, focaccia will transport you to Mediterranean lands full of olive groves and pleasant sun.
Focaccia is easy to make, but it always leaves the impression of being an experienced baker. The best part is that it doesn't require complicated techniques or special tools.
Focaccia
Ingredients
- 400 ml of warm water
- 6 g dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 500 g bread flour
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for coating and baking pan)
- coarse salt for sprinkling
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and foamy.
- In another bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix with a wooden spoon until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Add the olive oil and gently mix the dough until the oil is absorbed.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes to rise.
- Using wet hands, stretch the edges of the dough and fold them towards the center. Repeat this process twice, letting the dough rest for 30 minutes between each stretch.
- Grease a baking sheet generously with olive oil and transfer the dough to it. Gently stretch it over the surface of the baking sheet. Cover and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
- Use your fingertips to create characteristic indentations on the surface of the dough. Spray the dough with water, sprinkle with coarse salt, and add fresh herbs such as rosemary if desired.
- Preheat the oven to 230°C. Bake the focaccia for about 20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Once baked, transfer to a wire rack to cool.
