Appetizers, Baked Goods and Desserts        15 April 2024        94         0

Garlic and Herb Focaccia

Garlic and Herb Focaccia

Serves: Varies by size

  • 300g bread flour
  • 3g (1 tsp) instant dry yeast
  • 3g (1 tsp) sugar
  • 5g (0.5 tbsp) salt, finely ground
  • 20g (2 tbsp) olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 250ml warm water
  • 40g olive oil for the topping
  • 10 whole garlic cloves
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Black olives, pitted (optional)
  • Fresh rosemary (optional)
  • Coarse salt, for sprinkling
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and ground salt.
  2. Make a well in the center and pour in 20g of olive oil and the warm water.
  3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour. If the kitchen is very warm, check the dough after 20 minutes.
  5. Once the dough has risen, coat your hands and a 22cm baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently press it out to the edges.
  6. Let the dough rest for another 20-30 minutes to puff up a bit.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  8. Create dimples in the dough with your fingertips.
  9. Drizzle with the remaining 40g of olive oil. Sprinkle the whole garlic cloves, halved cherry tomatoes, olives, rosemary, and coarse salt over the top.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
  11. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using.
  12. Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
  • The focaccia can be baked directly on a baking stone or sheet if you don’t have a round pan.
  • For added flavor, consider infusing the olive oil with garlic and herbs before drizzling it on the dough.
  • This bread freezes well. Thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
  • For a crispier crust, you can increase the oven temperature or extend the baking time. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

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