Why make this recipe
Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread is a delightful addition to any table. Its soft, chewy texture and buttery aroma make it hard to resist. This bread is perfect for soaking up sauces, serving with soups, or simply enjoying with a drizzle of olive oil. Making focaccia at home can also impress family and friends, and you have the freedom to customize your flavors with fresh herbs. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious bread recipe, this one is sure to be a favorite.
How to make Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme)
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet. Press it out to fit the sheet, making dimples with your fingers.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs and coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
How to serve Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread
You can serve Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For an Italian twist, serve it alongside a classic tomato soup or with a vibrant salad. It also works wonderfully as an appetizer with dips like hummus or olive tapenade. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider cutting it into small squares for easy serving. Focaccia also tastes amazing with a brush of garlic butter for added flavor.
How to store Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread
To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about 2 to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer, where it can last for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature and warm it in the oven for a few minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Tips to make Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread
- For extra flavor, experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano.
- If you like a crispier crust, use a baking stone instead of a baking sheet.
- Don’t rush the rising process; letting the dough rise helps develop a light texture.
- Consider adding toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese before baking to enhance the flavor.
- For a delightful twist, try drizzling some infused oil made with garlic before serving.
Variation
Feel free to add different toppings based on your taste. Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even caramelized onions can bring a unique flavor. You can also create a sweet version by adding herbs like lavender and pairing it with honey or cheese.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. You may need to adjust the water amount as whole wheat absorbs more liquid.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature isn’t too hot or too cold. The ideal water temperature is around 110°F (43°C) for yeast activation.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for the best results.
Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a base for your favorite toppings, Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread is an excellent recipe to add to your cooking repertoire. For more recipes, check out these amazing dessert bars or savory tea sandwiches for your next gathering!
Herb-Infused Focaccia Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet. Press it out to fit the sheet, making dimples with your fingers.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs and coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.