Focaccia's recipe

How to Make Focacccia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Focaccia, the iconic Italian flatbread, is beloved for its crispy yet tender crumb, golden crust, and fragrant olive oil topping. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: You’ll need 4 cups (500g) bread flour, 1 ¼ cups (300ml) lukewarm water, 2 tsp active dry yeast, 1 ½ tsp salt, 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling, and optional toppings like rosemary, cherry tomatoes, or flaky sea salt.

Steps:

1. Activate Yeast: Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in yeast mixture and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape: Punch down dough. Transfer to a 9x13-inch baking sheet oiled with olive oil. Gently stretch to fill the pan, dimming fingers to create indentations. Drizzle with more olive oil and sprinkle toppings.

6. Second Rise: Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.

7. Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool slightly before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia as a side, sandwich base, or snack!