Best Focaccia Recipe

Overview: Focaccia is a flat oven-baked Italian bread, similar in style and texture to pizza dough. This classic bread is often seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs. Focaccia has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome and has evolved into various regional versions throughout Italy.

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Fresh rosemary (optional)
• Sea salt for sprinkling

Nutrition (per slice):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 4.5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 4.5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the yeast, honey, and warm water. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Punch down the dough and transfer it to an oiled baking sheet. Press it out into a large rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick.
7. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and fresh rosemary, if using.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
10. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Kitchen Tools Required:

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap
• Oven

Interesting Background: The word "focaccia" is derived from the Latin "focus," meaning "hearth" or "place for baking." Ancient Romans cooked this flatbread on the hearth of a fire. Focaccia has influenced many other breads around the world, including the French fougasse.