Focaccia Rosemary Bread
Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals
Delight in the aromatic flavors of this homemade Focaccia Rosemary Bread, perfect for dipping or as a side to your favorite meals.
This Focaccia Rosemary Bread is a classic Italian bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The addition of fresh rosemary brings a fragrant herbal note that complements the olive oil beautifully.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic rosemary enhances the flavor profile
- Soft and fluffy texture with a crispy crust
- Versatile bread perfect for sandwiches or as a side dish
The Art of Focaccia
Focaccia is more than just bread; it's a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. Known for its soft, airy texture and robust flavor, this Italian staple can be customized in endless ways. You can experiment with various toppings, from olives and tomatoes to seasonal vegetables and cheeses, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Each bite of homemade focaccia offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, elevating your dining experience.
The technique of creating dimples in the dough not only adds visual appeal but also helps in trapping the olive oil and toppings, enhancing the overall taste. This method ensures that every piece of bread is infused with the rich flavors of rosemary and sea salt. The process may seem simple, but the results are truly impressive, making it a perfect addition to any table.
Perfect Pairings
Focaccia Rosemary Bread is wonderfully versatile, making it an ideal companion for a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a warm bowl of soup or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal. Its light and fluffy texture complements rich and hearty dishes, creating a balanced plate. For an Italian-themed dinner, pair it with pasta dishes or enjoy it as a base for bruschetta.
Additionally, this focaccia is perfect for making sandwiches. Slice it in half, fill it with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and you have a gourmet sandwich that rivals any deli. The aromatic rosemary adds a unique twist, making every bite memorable.
Storage and Serving Tips
To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its delightful texture.
For serving, warm slices of focaccia in the oven or a toaster to enhance its crusty exterior. Drizzle with extra olive oil or serve with a side of balsamic vinegar for dipping. The combination of flavors will surely impress your guests and elevate any meal.
Ingredients
Focaccia Rosemary Bread Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 3/4 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix well. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Focaccia
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking pan with olive oil. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to the greased pan.
Add Toppings
Make dimples in the dough with your fingers, drizzle with more olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt. Let it rise for another 20 minutes.
Bake the Focaccia
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour; however, you may need to adjust the amount of water as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start with a smaller amount of water and gradually add until you achieve the desired dough consistency.
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking? The focaccia is ready when it turns golden brown on top and has a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of around 200°F (93°C) is a good indicator that the bread is fully cooked.
Variations to Try
While rosemary is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs and toppings. Try adding garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of cheese to elevate your focaccia. You can also mix in some spices like crushed red pepper or Italian seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
For a sweet twist, consider adding cinnamon and sugar to the dough, topped with sliced apples or pears. This variation makes for a delightful dessert or breakfast treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried rosemary, but the flavor will be less intense. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary.
→ How do I store leftover focaccia?
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
→ Can I add other herbs or toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano, or add toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese.
→ What can I serve focaccia with?
Focaccia is great on its own, but it also pairs well with soups, salads, or as a sandwich base.
Focaccia Rosemary Bread
Delight in the aromatic flavors of this homemade Focaccia Rosemary Bread, perfect for dipping or as a side to your favorite meals.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Focaccia Rosemary Bread Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 3/4 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Coarse sea salt for topping
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix well. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking pan with olive oil. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to the greased pan. Spread it out with your fingers to fit the pan.
Make dimples in the dough with your fingers, drizzle with more olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt. Let it rise for another 20 minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 5g