Gather Your Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of warm water
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit undisturbed for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with the flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix everything together until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. This step allows the dough to develop its characteristic flavor and texture.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your fingertips, press the dough into a rectangular or round shape, about 1 inch thick.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Focaccia is delicious plain, but you can enhance its flavor by adding your favorite toppings. Some popular options include rosemary, sea salt, olives, cherry tomatoes, or even caramelized onions. Be creative!
Step 7: Final Rise and Bake
Cover the shaped dough loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen, drizzle it with some olive oil and sprinkle your chosen toppings over it. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy Your Homemade Focaccia
Remove the freshly baked focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm with your favorite dips or alongside a bowl of steaming soup. Enjoy the satisfaction of devouring your very own homemade focaccia!
Now that you know how to make the perfect focaccia dough, it’s time to unleash your inner baker and create this mouthwatering Italian bread in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those lucky enough to share in your culinary creations!