Description
A fluffy, olive-oil rich Italian flatbread topped with garlic and herbs, featuring a crisp crust and airy interior. This garlic herb focaccia combines fragrant garlic, fresh rosemary, and a sprinkle of flaky salt to create a deliciously savory bread perfect as a side or snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp yeast (active dry or instant)
- 1½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling and pan)
Toppings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or mixed herbs, chopped
- Flaky salt for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil while mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly knead or use the stretch-and-fold method for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic but still slightly sticky.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Drizzle olive oil generously on a baking pan. Press the risen dough into the pan, spreading it evenly. Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough. Evenly distribute the minced garlic and fresh herbs on top. Sprinkle with flaky salt to finish.
- Bake the Focaccia: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia on the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. This helps the crumb set and makes cutting easier.
Notes
- Using more olive oil will result in a softer crumb inside the focaccia.
- Let the focaccia rest for about 10 minutes after baking before cutting to ensure even texture.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced or combined with thyme, oregano, or basil for varied flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
