If you love warm, homemade bread, you’re in for a treat with this Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread! This easy and flavorful recipe will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The best part? It’s simple enough for anyone to make. Whether you serve it as a snack or a side, your friends and family will ask for seconds. Let’s dive into the joy of baking this soft, herby delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs infuses the bread with an aromatic flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This focaccia recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, as a side with soups or salads, or use it for sandwiches; the possibilities are endless!
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Herb Focaccia
To make garlic herb focaccia, gather these key ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ¾ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
These items make up the base of your focaccia. The flour provides structure, while yeast helps it rise. Olive oil adds flavor and moisture. Garlic and herbs bring the delicious aroma and taste.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
If you want to make your focaccia unique, consider these options:
- Cheese (like mozzarella or parmesan)
- Olives (green or black)
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Fresh basil for extra flavor
Feel free to mix and match! These additions can add a new twist to your focaccia.
Nutritional Information
A serving of garlic herb focaccia (about 1 slice) contains:
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
This bread is a tasty treat. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you're watching your carbs or sodium. Eating fresh bread is always a joy, and this recipe keeps it simple and rewarding.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ¼ teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir these together until they are well blended. Next, gradually pour in 1 ¾ cups of warm water. The water should be about 110°F, perfect for yeast. Use a wooden spoon to mix until a sticky dough forms.
Now, add ¼ cup of olive oil. Stir until it mixes well. This dough will feel wet and sticky, and that's just right! Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours. You want it to double in size.
Rising and Shaping the Focaccia
After the dough has risen, it's time to shape it. Generously oil a baking sheet that is about 13x18 inches. This helps the focaccia not stick. Transfer the risen dough to the baking sheet. With your hands, gently stretch it to fill the pan.
Use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface of the dough. This helps the flavors soak in later. In a small bowl, mix 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves with another tablespoon of olive oil. Brush this herb oil over the dough, making sure it seeps into the dimples. Finally, sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top. Cover the dough again and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Baking and Serving
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes. You want it to turn golden brown and crisp on top. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool slightly before slicing. For a finishing touch, drizzle a bit more olive oil on top if you like.
When you serve it, cut the focaccia into squares. It looks lovely garnished with fresh rosemary. You can even offer a dish of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Enjoy the warm, tasty bread!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making garlic herb focaccia, some mistakes can ruin the bread. Here are a few to watch for:
- Using cold water: Always use warm water to help the yeast grow.
- Overmixing the dough: Mix until just combined; don’t worry about lumps.
- Not letting it rise enough: Give the dough time to double. This makes it airy.
- Skipping the dimples: Dimples help the oil and herbs soak in. Don’t skip this step!
Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs boost the flavor of your focaccia. Here’s how to maximize their taste:
- Use a mix of herbs: Rosemary and thyme work well together. Try adding basil or oregano for more flavor.
- Add herbs to the dough: Mix some chopped herbs into the dough for a fragrant base.
- Make herb oil: Combine minced garlic, chopped herbs, and olive oil. Brush this on before baking for extra flavor.
Making Perfect Dimples
Creating dimples is an art. Follow these tips to get them just right:
- Use your fingertips: Gently press down with your fingers, not your palms.
- Space them out: Make dimples about an inch apart for even oil coverage.
- Don’t press too hard: You want to create wells without tearing the dough. This keeps the focaccia fluffy.
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: For the best flavor, choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for both the dough and drizzling on top.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to customize your focaccia.
- Let It Rise Properly: Ensure the dough rises in a warm environment to achieve a light and airy texture in the focaccia.
- Store It Correctly: To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Variations
Adding Cheese or Olives
You can add cheese or olives to your focaccia for extra flavor. Try adding grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking. The cheese will melt and create a tasty crust. For olives, green or black ones work well. Chop them up and sprinkle them on the dough after you add the herb oil. This adds a nice salty touch.
Alternative Herbs and Spices
Feel free to switch up the herbs in your focaccia. If you love basil, try using it instead of rosemary or thyme. Oregano also adds a nice kick. For a spicy touch, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. These changes will give your focaccia a new twist and keep it exciting.
Sweet Focaccia Options
Focaccia doesn't have to be savory! You can make a sweet version too. Use honey or maple syrup in the dough to add sweetness. Top your focaccia with fresh fruit like figs, apples, or berries before baking. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can also add a delightful flavor. This sweet focaccia is perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftover Focaccia
After making your garlic herb focaccia, you may have some left. To keep it fresh, let it cool first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in a sealed bag. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it.
Freezing Focaccia Bread
Freezing focaccia is easy and keeps it tasty. Once cooled, slice the bread into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Focaccia can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips for Freshness
To reheat your focaccia, you have a few options. The oven is the best way to keep it crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the focaccia directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10 to 15 minutes until warm. For a quick fix, you can also use a microwave. Just wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and warm it for 15 to 20 seconds. This keeps it soft, but it won’t be as crispy as from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. It will change the texture and flavor. The focaccia might be denser and have a nuttier taste. Use the same amount of whole wheat flour as all-purpose flour. You may need to add a bit more water since whole wheat absorbs more moisture.
How long does the yeast need to rise?
The yeast needs to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours. This time allows the dough to double in size. Make sure to keep it in a warm place. A warm kitchen or near a sunny window works well. If your kitchen is cool, it may take longer.
What can I serve with garlic herb focaccia bread?
Garlic herb focaccia pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It also goes great with soups and salads. Try it alongside a hearty stew or as a sandwich base. You can even enjoy it plain, fresh out of the oven.
Garlic herb focaccia is a fun and tasty bread to make. We explored essential and optional ingredients, and I shared tips for the best dough. Remember to avoid common mistakes for great results. You can customize your focaccia with herbs, cheese, or even sweet toppings. Proper storage keeps it fresh longer. Focaccia pairs well with soups, salads, or spreads. Try the variations to keep things exciting. Now, go ahead and make your perfect loaf! Enjoy the process and the delicious results.
