Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread Easy and Flavorful Recipe

Are you ready to bake a bread that fills your home with rich aromas? In this blog post, I'll share a simple recipe for Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread that is both easy and incredibly flavorful. With just a few ingredients, you can create a soft, chewy bread topped with garlic and fresh herbs. Let’s dive into the world of homemade bread that impresses every time! Your kitchen deserves this treat.

Ingredients

To make Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 2 teaspoons salt

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast

- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)

- ¼ cup olive oil, plus additional for drizzling

- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced

- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped

- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, for garnish

Each ingredient plays a special role in the recipe.

All-purpose flour gives structure and texture. Salt enhances flavor and helps with the dough rise. Sugar feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness. Instant dry yeast makes the dough rise quickly. Warm water activates the yeast, ensuring a good rise.

Olive oil adds richness and moisture. Minced garlic brings bold flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a fragrant touch to the bread. Lastly, sea salt and black pepper create a delightful finish.

Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a delicious focaccia!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Yeast Mixture

First, get a large mixing bowl. Pour in 1 ½ cups of warm water. The water should feel warm, but not hot. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 teaspoons of instant dry yeast. Stir lightly. Now, wait for 5 to 10 minutes. You want the mixture to become frothy and bubbly. This shows that the yeast is active.

Making the Dough

Next, take the yeast mixture and add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Use a wooden spoon to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Once it looks good, pour in ¼ cup of olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together. Now, turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.

Rising and Shaping the Dough

Now it’s time for the first rise. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a towel. Let it sit in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. When it has risen, punch it down gently. Turn it out onto a greased baking sheet or a 9x13 inch pan. Use your fingers to press the dough into the shape of the pan. In a small bowl, mix 6 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of chopped thyme. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.

Second Rise and Baking

Cover the dough again with a towel. Let it rise for another 30 minutes. After this, use your fingers to make dimples all over the dough. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle some olive oil over the top, letting it pool in the dimples. Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes. It should turn golden brown with a nice crust. When done, take it out and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Let it cool before slicing.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve soft and chewy focaccia, knead the dough well. Use your hands to push and fold the dough for about 5-7 minutes. This builds gluten, which gives the bread its structure. You want it to feel smooth and elastic when you're done.

The second rise is crucial. After shaping the dough in the pan, let it rest for 30 minutes. This allows the dough to puff up. Don't skip this step. It makes your focaccia airy and light.

Flavor Enhancement Suggestions

Get creative with the herbs! You can use basil, oregano, or even sage. Mix and match to suit your taste. If you want a twist, add spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.

Before baking, sprinkle the dough with toppings. Try sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or shredded cheese. These add flavor and texture. You can even drizzle a bit more olive oil for richness.

Presentation Tips

Slice the focaccia into squares for serving. Place it on a nice platter alongside olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This makes a great dip for the bread.

For a final touch, garnish with fresh herbs. Sprinkle extra rosemary or thyme on top. This not only looks pretty but also boosts the flavor. Enjoy your beautiful focaccia!

Variations

Herb Combinations

You can switch up the herbs in your focaccia. Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley work well. Try mixing a few together for more flavor. If you love cheese, consider adding grated cheese to the top. A mix of mozzarella and parmesan creates a rich, savory taste.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. Look for a blend that works for bread. This will keep your focaccia light and fluffy. You can also lower the sodium. Use less salt in the dough or skip the topping salt for a healthier version.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal vegetables can add fun twists to your focaccia. In summer, try tomatoes or zucchini. In fall, add roasted squash or pumpkin seeds. You can even change the flavors for holidays. Use herbs like sage in the fall or fresh dill in spring for a festive touch.

Storage Info

Cooling and Storing

After baking your focaccia, let it cool on a wire rack. This step is key. If you skip it, moisture may build up. This can make your bread soggy. Letting it cool for at least 30 minutes helps keep the crust crisp.

To store your focaccia, wrap it in plastic wrap. Keep it in a cool, dry place. You can also place it in a paper bag. This keeps it fresh for about two days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the focaccia first. Then, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Instructions

When it's time to enjoy your focaccia again, reheating is easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the focaccia directly on the oven rack for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore the crispiness of the crust.

If you have slices, you can reheat them in a toaster oven. Just toast them for 3 to 5 minutes. You may also drizzle a little olive oil on the crust before reheating. This extra touch adds flavor and keeps the bread moist.

FAQs

How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?

Your focaccia is done when it looks golden brown. The top should be crusty. You can tap the bottom of the bread. If it sounds hollow, that’s a good sign. The edges may pull away from the pan a little. This means it's cooked through.

Can I make garlic herb focaccia ahead of time?

Yes, you can make focaccia ahead of time. Prepare the dough and let it rise. After the first rise, punch it down and shape it. Instead of baking right away, cover it. Place it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature. Allow about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it rise again.

What can I serve with focaccia bread?

Focaccia pairs well with many dishes. Serve it with olive oil for dipping. You can also add balsamic vinegar. It works great as a side for soups and salads. Use it to make sandwiches. Top it with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella for a simple meal.

Can I freeze focaccia bread?

Yes, you can freeze focaccia. Allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. To thaw, take it out and leave it at room temperature. For a warm focaccia, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

You now have a full guide to making delicious garlic herb focaccia. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the texture, and creative variations. You can adjust the recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs. Remember to store it properly for the best freshness. Focaccia is perfect for any meal or gathering. Enjoy baking your bread, and share it with family and friends. You’ll love the homemade touch and delightful flavors. Happy baking!