27

min
  • snacks

Foccacia Bread

Focaccia bread, a staple of Italian cuisine, is a delight that combines simplicity with irresistible flavors. This fluffy flatbread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a canvas for culinary creativity. Infused with olive oil, fresh rosemary, and a sprinkle of sea salt, this version of focaccia adds an Iron Chef twist with the incorporation of roasted garlic and a hint of lemon zest for an invigorating aroma and taste. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a base for sandwiches, this focaccia is sure to impress.

  • SERVES
    6 people
  • PREP TIME
    2 hours (includes rising time)
  • Cook TIME
    25 minutes
Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, roasted and mashed
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Flaky sea salt for topping
Directions
  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, rosemary, and lemon zest. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of olive oil.
  3. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Spread the dough into a rectangle or circle about 1/2 inch thick.
  7. Use your fingers to create dimples across the surface of the dough. Drizzle olive oil generously over the top and spread the mashed roasted garlic evenly.
  8. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top and let the dough rest for another 20-30 minutes.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

Focaccia bread is a beloved Italian classic that boasts a soft, airy texture and a rich flavor profile. Traditionally, it’s made with just flour, water, yeast, and olive oil, but this recipe elevates the standard version with the addition of roasted garlic and lemon zest, creating a more complex and aromatic flavor. The inspiration behind this recipe came from my love for the Mediterranean and the way simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary.

"Focaccia is not just bread; it’s an experience. The combination of textures and flavors can transport you straight to an Italian piazza, where the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air."

The roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness, while the lemon zest brightens the overall flavor, making each bite a delightful journey. The use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential, as it enhances the taste and contributes to the bread’s moist texture.

What sets this focaccia apart from common versions is not just the ingredients, but also the technique. Allowing the dough to rise twice results in an incredibly fluffy interior, while the dimpling technique creates pockets that hold onto the olive oil and garlic, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whether served as a side to your favorite pasta dish, topped with fresh tomatoes and cheese for a bruschetta-style appetizer, or simply enjoyed on its own, this focaccia bread is a must-try for any home cook looking to impress.

snacks