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Focaccia

Focaccia

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Plant-Based

Description

This easy focaccia recipe produces a soft, pillowy bread with a golden crust topped with fragrant herbs and luscious olive oil. Perfect for any meal, it uses simple pantry staples and natural plant-based ingredients to create a fluffy texture with versatile flavor variations featuring plant-based toppings. Ideal for snacking, serving as a side, or making sandwiches, this quick and adaptable focaccia will brighten your table and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Toppings (Optional Variations)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (natural), chopped
  • 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese
  • 1/2 cup caramelized onions
  • 1/4 cup olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon za’atar spice blend
  • 1/2 cup caramelized mushrooms
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated and ready.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, sea salt, garlic powder, and natural gelling agent. Pour in the yeast mixture and extra virgin olive oil. Stir until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead and Proof: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm area for about one hour or until it doubles in size.
  4. Shape and Top the Dough: Transfer the risen dough to a well-oiled baking pan. Gently press your fingers into the dough to create dimples all over the surface. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle fresh rosemary and sea salt evenly. Add any chosen toppings like plant-based cheese, cherry tomatoes, olives, or other variations.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for approximately 20 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into warm, fragrant squares to serve.

Notes

  • Proper kneading develops gluten for a light, airy texture.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even yeast activation and fermentation.
  • Pressing dimples into the dough holds pockets of olive oil and toppings, enhancing flavor and moisture.
  • Use fresh herbs for vibrant aroma and subtle complexity.
  • Allow the dough to rest twice: first for yeast activation and second for final rising to ensure fluffiness.
  • Be generous with olive oil for a signature soft and golden crust.
  • Watch baking time carefully to avoid drying out the bread.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: focaccia, plant-based bread, herb bread, easy focaccia, homemade bread, vegan focaccia, savory bread

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/focaccia/