Introduction
Focaccia is one of the most famous types of bread in Italian cuisine, known for its soft, airy texture and aromatic flavor created by olive oil and rosemary.
This bread is commonly served as an appetizer, enjoyed on its own, or used to make gourmet sandwiches in restaurants.
Despite its simple ingredients, focaccia stands out among many breads thanks to the generous use of olive oil and fragrant herbs, which give it a rich and irresistible flavor.
First: Focaccia Bread Ingredients
Basic Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Traditional Toppings:
- Fresh or dried rosemary
- Black or green olives
- Cherry tomatoes
- Coarse sea salt
Second: The Secret Behind Authentic Italian Focaccia Flavor
The unique flavor of focaccia depends on:
- Using a generous amount of olive oil inside the dough and on top
- Allowing enough resting and fermentation time for proper rise
- Creating finger dimples that allow oil and herbs to penetrate the dough
- Rosemary, which is the classic herb paired with focaccia in Italian kitchens
Third: Step-by-Step Focaccia Preparation
1. Preparing the Dough
Mix warm water with yeast and sugar, then let it rest for 10 minutes until activated.
Gradually add flour and salt, then start kneading.
Add olive oil and knead until the dough becomes soft and smooth.
2. First Fermentation
Grease a bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover it.
Let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
3. Shaping the Focaccia
Spread the dough into an olive-oil-greased baking pan.
Use your fingers to create deep dimples all over the surface — a key step for flavor absorption.
4. Adding the Toppings
Drizzle the surface with olive oil, then add:
- Rosemary
- Coarse sea salt
- Olives or cherry tomatoes (optional)
5. Second Resting
Let the dough rest for an additional 20 minutes before baking.
6. Baking
Bake in a preheated oven at 200–220°C (390–430°F) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Fourth: Italian-Style Serving Suggestions
Focaccia bread is traditionally served with:
- Olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- Pasta dishes and salads
- Soups
- White cheeses and mozzarella
In Italian restaurants, focaccia is also used to prepare sandwiches such as pesto chicken or mozzarella with tomatoes.
Fifth: Delicious Variations to Try
- Caramelized onions on top
- Minced garlic mixed with olive oil
- Wild thyme instead of rosemary
- Grated Parmesan cheese before baking
- Crushed black pepper for extra depth
Sixth: Tips for Perfect Focaccia Bread
- Do not add too much flour; the dough should remain soft
- Allow proper fermentation for a fluffy texture
- Use high-quality olive oil, as it defines the flavor
- Press deep dimples with your fingers before baking
- Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness
Conclusion
Italian focaccia bread perfectly reflects the beauty and simplicity of Italian cuisine.
With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, its soft texture and aromatic crust make it suitable for any occasion.
This recipe is a valuable addition to the Italian cuisine section of Atayeb Kitchen, especially since focaccia is one of the most searched bread recipes worldwide.
