Teresa's Recipes
Rosemary Focaccia
Immerse yourself in the warm, aromatic embrace of homemade rosemary focaccia, a traditional Italian bread that elevates any meal with its golden, crispy crust and soft, fluffy interior. Each bite is infused with the fragrant essence of fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt, reminiscent of rustic Italian bakeries. This delightful bread can be enjoyed on its own, transformed into delectable sandwiches, or served alongside your favorite dishes for a savory touch. Focaccia has ancient roots, dating back to Roman times, where it was a cherished staple for both the wealthy and the common folk. Today, it continues to be a beloved and versatile addition to dining tables worldwide, inviting you to savor its rich history and delightful flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1 cup (110°F/45°C) Warm water
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 cup, plus more for drizzling Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons, chopped Fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon, for topping Coarse sea salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 12
- Dish Type: Bread
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (including rising time)
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Sugar: 0g
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Add the flour, 1/4 cup olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet, pressing it out into a rectangle or circle as desired.
- Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle it generously with olive oil, sprinkle with the chopped rosemary, and season with coarse sea salt. Allow it to rise for another 20 minutes.
- Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough before the second rise.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Focaccia also makes a wonderful base for pizza; simply add your favorite toppings before baking.