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Cooking at home is more than just a necessity; it is an art form that nourishes both the body and the soul. There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into a warm, inviting dish that fills your home with delightful aromas. Today, we invite you to explore the world of bread-making with our Savory Rosemary Garlic Focaccia recipe. This Italian classic is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to the joy of crafting something delicious from scratch.

Savory Rosemary Garlic Focaccia

Discover the art of baking with our Savory Rosemary Garlic Focaccia recipe that combines simple ingredients into an aromatic, mouthwatering masterpiece. This Italian classic, known for its pillowy texture, is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or sandwich base. Dive into the world of bread-making by mastering essential techniques and exploring flavor variations, from seasonal vegetables to proteins. Create a delicious loaf from scratch and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread!

Ingredients
  

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons sea salt

1 tablespoon sugar

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

½ cup extra virgin olive oil, divided

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast:

    In a small bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of warm water and the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

      Prepare the Dough:

        In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sea salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and ¼ cup of olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until the dough starts to come together.

          Knead the Dough:

            Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour to prevent sticking.

              First Rise:

                Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

                  Prepare the Herbs and Garlic:

                    While the dough is rising, mix the minced garlic and chopped rosemary with the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil in a small bowl. Set aside.

                      Shape the Focaccia:

                        Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a greased baking sheet (or a 9x13-inch baking pan). Gently stretch and press the dough until it fills the pan evenly.

                          Second Rise:

                            Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.

                              Dimple the Dough:

                                After the second rise, use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle the garlic-rosemary oil mixture over the top, ensuring it gets into the dimples. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and black pepper, if desired.

                                  Bake:

                                    Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

                                      Cool and Serve:

                                        Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Slice into squares and serve warm. Enjoy it as a side, or topped with your favorite ingredients like prosciutto, cheese, or even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar!

                                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 12 generous pieces