Focaccia Bread
A fluffy, fragrant focaccia bread with a crisp crust and soft interior, perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or as a side for Mediterranean dishes. Customizable with toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water with olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and sugar.
- Stir in the flour a little at a time until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured board and knead until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl and let rise until doubled in size, about 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh yeast and ensure your water is warm but not hot, around 110°F (43°C). If you don't have unbleached flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour. To add flavor, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough or topping the focaccia with sliced green olives before baking. This bread is versatile and can be served with various Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Focaccia is delightful on its own or served alongside soups and salads, such as Jo'S Gazpacho or Marinated Bean-And-Rice Salad. You can also slice it for sandwiches or serve it with a dip of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled sea scallops or a fresh Grilled Vegetable Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place the focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Focaccia Bread contains roughly 535 calories, with 9g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1288mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make focaccia without yeast?
While traditional focaccia relies on yeast for its rise and texture, you can make a quick version using baking powder instead. However, the flavor and texture will differ significantly, so it's best to use yeast when possible for the authentic experience.
How can I make focaccia more flavorful?
Incorporate herbs, garlic, or cheese into the dough before baking for added flavor. You can also sprinkle toppings like coarse sea salt, sliced olives, or cherry tomatoes on top before baking to enhance the taste and presentation.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and dissolved properly in warm water. Also, a warm, draft-free environment is crucial for rising. If conditions are too cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven with the light on.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).