Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Yeast
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Sugar
- 2 cups Lukewarm water
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
Toppings
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
- Rosemary, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl, ensuring they are well blended.
- Add Water and Form Dough: Pour in the lukewarm water and mix with a spatula until a sticky dough forms, without kneading.
- Oil the Dough Surface: Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil over the dough’s surface and rub it evenly to coat.
- Refrigerate Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 18-24 hours to allow slow fermentation and flavor development.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Grease a 9"x13" or 10"x12" pan and line with parchment paper if desired, especially for non-stick assurance.
- Stretch and Fold the Dough: Remove dough from fridge, oil your hands, and gently fold the dough over itself multiple times by turning the bowl quarter turns to develop its structure.
- Oil the Pan and Place Dough: Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the prepared pan, place the dough in the center, and roll it gently to coat the dough with oil on all sides.
- Second Rise: Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a draft-free place until doubled in size, approximately 1.5 to 4 hours.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) while dough is rising.
- Add Toppings and Dimples: Sprinkle rosemary over the dough if using, drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly on top, spread it around, then use your fingers to dimple the dough surface. Finally, sprinkle sea salt.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bottom is crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the focaccia rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Slice warm or let cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Using lukewarm water helps activate the yeast for proper fermentation.
- Refrigeration for at least 18 hours enhances flavor and texture through slow fermentation.
- Oil your hands and bowl to prevent sticking when handling the dough.
- Adjust rosemary quantity to preference or omit for a plain focaccia.
- Letting the dough double in size before baking is key to a light, airy crumb.
- Serve focaccia as a snack, with soups, or as sandwich bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian