Ingredients
- 4 cups (500g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
- 1¾ cups (415ml) warm water
- ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
1. Mix and Knead the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and ¼ cup of olive oil, then mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise:
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape and Dimple:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Grease a baking sheet with olive oil. Stretch the dough to fit the pan.
- Use your fingertips to press dimples all over the surface.
4. Second Rise:
- Cover and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes.
5. Add Toppings & Bake:
- Drizzle with extra olive oil, then sprinkle with rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Cool & Serve:
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Fluffier Focaccia: Allow the dough to rise longer for extra airiness.
- Garlic Infused: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before drizzling for added flavor.
- Cheesy Version: Sprinkle Parmesan or mozzarella before baking.
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Bread
- Method: Mixing, Rising, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian