How to Make Italian Focaccia with Rosemary
Italian focaccia is a delicious flatbread that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement various meals. The addition of rosemary adds a fragrant and savory dimension to this traditional bread. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Italian focaccia with rosemary that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Allow it to stand for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you find the dough too sticky, you can add a bit more flour as needed.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a large, greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan
While the dough is rising, prepare your baking pan. A rimmed baking sheet or a large oven-safe dish will work well. Generously drizzle olive oil on the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to the prepared baking pan and spread it out with your fingers to fit the shape of the pan. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the dough again with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it has puffed up.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures a crispy crust while keeping the inside fluffy.
Step 8: Add the Toppings
Once the dough has completed its second rise, use your fingers to dimple the surface of the focaccia, creating small pockets. This not only adds texture but also helps hold the olive oil and seasonings. Generously sprinkle the surface with coarse sea salt and arrange fresh rosemary sprigs on top. Drizzle additional olive oil over everything for added flavor.
Step 9: Bake
Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the edges are crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Italian focaccia with rosemary is perfect for sharing at dinner parties or savored as a snack. Pair it with a side of olive oil for dipping or enjoy it alongside soups and salads.
Experiment with toppings such as cherry tomatoes, olives, or garlic for a personalized twist on this classic recipe! Enjoy your homemade Italian focaccia!