Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread Easy and Flavorful Recipe

You can make tasty garlic herb focaccia bread with ease! This recipe is simple and fun. I will guide you through everything from dough prep to baking. You’ll learn about key ingredients, tips for perfect texture, and fun variations. Plus, I’ll share storage tips to enjoy this bread later. Let’s dive into the world of homemade focaccia that smells amazing and tastes even better!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 cups all-purpose flour

– 2 teaspoons instant yeast

– 1 teaspoon sugar

– 2 teaspoons salt

– 1½ cups warm water (110°F or 43°C)

– 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

– Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

– Black pepper to taste

Key Ingredients and Their Role

Each ingredient plays a key part in making the focaccia. All-purpose flour gives the bread its structure. Instant yeast helps it rise quickly. Sugar feeds the yeast for a better rise. Salt adds flavor and controls yeast growth. Warm water activates the yeast and makes the dough smooth. Olive oil gives richness and a nice texture. Garlic adds a bold taste, while rosemary and thyme bring fresh herbal notes.

Substitutions for Ingredients

You can swap some ingredients if needed. Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture. If you don’t have instant yeast, active dry yeast works too; just let it sit longer. Any herb can replace rosemary and thyme; try oregano or basil for a different twist. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute olive oil with avocado oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Dough

First, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine 1½ cups of warm water, 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You want it to get frothy. Next, add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Mix until you see a sticky dough form.

Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Use your hands to knead it right in the bowl. Do this for about 5 minutes, until the dough feels smooth.

Techniques for Kneading and Rising

Kneading is key for good focaccia. It helps develop the gluten, giving your bread a nice texture. Make sure your hands are slightly floured to avoid sticking. After kneading, cover the bowl with a damp cloth. Place it in a warm spot and let it rise for about 1 hour. It should double in size.

Once it has risen, gently punch down the dough to release any air. This step is important to keep your focaccia light.

Baking Instructions

Now it’s time to bake! Pour 2 more tablespoons of olive oil onto a baking sheet that’s about 12×18 inches. Spread it around so the dough doesn’t stick. Transfer the dough to the sheet and stretch it out to fit. Use your fingertips to make dimples all over the top.

In a small bowl, mix the last 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of chopped thyme. Brush this mix all over the dough. Don’t forget to sprinkle coarse sea salt and black pepper on top.

Let the dough rest for another 20-30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Once baked, take it out and let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy this delicious garlic herb focaccia warm!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get that perfect focaccia texture, follow these steps:

– Make sure your water is warm, around 110°F. This helps the yeast grow.

– Knead the dough until it feels smooth. This usually takes about 5 minutes.

– Let the dough rise in a warm spot. A cozy kitchen works great!

– Create dimples with your fingertips. This helps the oil and herbs soak in.

Flavor Enhancements

Boost the taste of your focaccia with these tips:

– Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for a bright flavor.

– Add more garlic if you love a strong taste.

– Try mixing in a little grated cheese into the dough for extra richness.

– Drizzle some balsamic vinegar over the top before serving for a tangy twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

– If your dough doesn’t rise, check your yeast. It may be old or inactive.

– If the focaccia is too dense, you might have over-kneaded the dough.

– For a soggy bottom, make sure your baking sheet is greased well.

– If the top is too brown, cover it with foil halfway through baking.

Variations

Different Herb Combinations

You can mix up the herbs to suit your taste. Try using basil, oregano, or sage. Each herb adds a unique flavor. Rosemary and thyme are classic choices, but do not be afraid to explore. For a more intense flavor, add fresh dill or parsley. You can also use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so use less.

Cheese and Vegetable Additions

Adding cheese or veggies can make your focaccia even tastier. Crumbled feta or mozzarella cheese works well. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before baking. For veggies, try adding sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted peppers. These additions bring color and flavor. Just make sure not to overload the dough. Balance is key for great focaccia.

Gluten-Free Focaccia Options

If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well for focaccia. Look for one that has xanthan gum or add it separately. Follow the same steps in the recipe but watch the baking time. Gluten-free dough can bake differently. Keep an eye on it as it cooks. This way, you can enjoy delicious focaccia without gluten!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Focaccia

To keep your focaccia fresh, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration is not ideal, as it can dry out the bread.

Reheating Methods

Reheating focaccia is easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. You can also use a toaster oven for quick reheating. For softer bread, cover it with foil while heating.

Freezing Tips

If you have extra focaccia, freezing is a great option. Slice the bread and let it cool. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps to keep the bread fresh. Focaccia can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature or reheat directly from the freezer.

FAQs

How long does homemade focaccia last?

Homemade focaccia can last up to three days at room temperature. Keep it in a bread bag or wrap it in plastic. If you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge. This may dry it out, so warm it up before serving. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast. Just remember to activate it first. Mix the yeast with warm water and sugar, then let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. Once it bubbles up, mix it into your dough as you would with instant yeast.

What can I serve with garlic herb focaccia?

Garlic herb focaccia pairs well with many dishes. Try it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It also complements soups and salads nicely. You can serve it with cheese platters or grilled meats. Use it to make sandwiches too! The options are endless.

This blog post covered all you need to make focaccia. We explored the key ingredients and their roles, along with suitable substitutes. The clear step-by-step guide on dough preparation, kneading, rising, and baking simplifies the process. You found helpful tips for texture and flavor. We also shared variations, storage tips, and answers to common questions.

Now, you can confidently create delicious focaccia at home, impressing yourself and others. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and textures! Happy bakin