Introduction
Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a warm, aromatic haven? This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a delightful addition to any meal and perfect for snacking on its own. With its golden-brown crust, soft and airy center, and a tantalizing blend of garlic and parmesan, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but the smell wafting through your home as it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating that first warm bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir gently until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough rises.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Gently press the dough out to fill the baking sheet, using your fingers to create delightful dimples all over the surface.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, and optional chopped rosemary.
- Spread the garlic mixture evenly over the dough, allowing it to seep into those delectable dimples, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Let the dough rest for an additional 20 minutes, giving it one last chance to puff up slightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the aroma fills your home.
- Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm for the best experience!
Notes or Tips
For a twist, feel free to add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the dough before baking. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil according to your taste preference. This focaccia bread is best enjoyed fresh, but leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days, or even sliced and frozen for longer storage.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes a few key techniques that are vital for achieving that perfect focaccia. Kneading the dough until smooth develops gluten, providing structure to the bread. Additionally, creating dimples in the dough not only enhances its presentation but also allows the olive oil and garlic mixture to settle in beautifully, infusing every bite with flavor.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour?
While you can substitute whole wheat flour, the texture will be denser. For the best results, consider using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.
How do I store leftover focaccia?
Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 2 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to a month.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a simple yet impressive addition to any meal, whether it’s served as an appetizer, side, or just a delightful snack. The combination of golden crust and flavorful toppings will ensure it disappears quickly. Enjoy your baking adventure and the delicious bread that comes with it!