Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: rosemary, cherry tomatoes, olives, etc.
Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Give it a quick stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture as well as the olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until a dough starts to form.
Step 3: Knead the dough
Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. Add more flour if necessary, but keep in mind that the dough should be slightly sticky.
Step 4: First rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for around 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the focaccia
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently press and stretch the dough into a rectangular shape, approximately 1 inch thick.
Step 6: Second rise
Cover the shaped dough with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Add toppings
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has completed its second rise, you can now press your fingertips into the dough to create dimples. Drizzle olive oil generously over the surface and add your desired toppings, such as rosemary, cherry tomatoes, or olives.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown on top.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into squares or slices and serve it warm. Enjoy your homemade focaccia!
Now that you have this step-by-step guide, making homemade focaccia is no longer an unattainable dream. Gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and delight in your very own freshly baked focaccia. Buon appetito!