Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy slice of homemade Garlic and Herb Focaccia Bread – the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the air as you take each bite. This delectable bread, with its golden crust and soft interior, is not only mouthwatering but also surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a restaurant-quality focaccia that will impress your friends and family. So, why not roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the enticing world of the Garlic and Herb Focaccia Bread recipe.
Ingredients
To make a delicious garlic and herb focaccia bread, you will need the following ingredients:
All-purpose flour
All-purpose flour serves as the base for the focaccia bread. It provides the structure and texture of the bread.
Active dry yeast
The active dry yeast is responsible for leavening the bread. It helps the dough rise and gives the bread a light and airy texture.
Sugar
A small amount of sugar is added to feed the yeast and aid in the fermentation process. It helps the dough to rise properly and adds a hint of sweetness to the bread.
Salt
Salt is important in enhancing the flavors of the bread. It helps to balance out the sweetness and brings out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
Garlic powder
Garlic powder gives the focaccia bread its signature garlicky flavor. It adds a savory element to the bread and complements the herbs perfectly.
Dried herbs (e.g. rosemary, thyme, oregano)
Dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano add a burst of aromatic flavors to the focaccia bread. They give the bread a delightful Mediterranean twist.
Olive oil
Olive oil not only adds richness and moisture to the bread but also contributes to the overall flavor profile. It gives the focaccia a lovely golden crust.
Warm water
Warm water is essential for activating the yeast. It helps to dissolve the yeast and encourages fermentation, allowing the dough to rise effectively.
Preparation
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making garlic and herb focaccia bread.
Proofing the yeast
First, start by proofing the yeast. In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to be used.
Mixing the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Mix them together until well combined. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the proofed yeast mixture and olive oil.
Kneading the dough
Using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes of kneading. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the bread dense.
First rise
Once the dough is well-kneaded, place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial in developing the flavors and creating a light and fluffy texture.
Shaping the dough
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release the excess air. Transfer it to a greased baking dish or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your fingertips, press the dough evenly to create dimples all over the surface. This helps to give the focaccia its characteristic appearance.
Second rise
Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to relax and ensures that the bread will have a light and airy crumb once baked.
Adding garlic and herbs
Before baking, drizzle some olive oil on top of the risen dough, making sure it fills the dimples. Sprinkle additional dried herbs and garlic powder on top for an extra burst of flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the presentation and taste.
Baking the focaccia
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia bread for about 15-20 minutes or until it turns golden brown on top. The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your dough, so keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking. Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations you can try to customize your garlic and herb focaccia bread:
Using fresh herbs
Instead of using dried herbs, you can use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Chop them finely and sprinkle them on top of the dough right before baking. This will give your focaccia a fresher and more vibrant taste.
Adding parmesan cheese
For an extra layer of flavor, grate some parmesan cheese over the dough before baking. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust on top of the focaccia, adding a rich and savory element to the bread.
Infusing garlic oil
To intensify the garlic flavor, you can infuse olive oil with garlic cloves. Heat some olive oil in a small saucepan and add crushed garlic cloves. Cook over low heat for a few minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Strain the oil, discarding the garlic cloves, and use this infused garlic oil to drizzle over the dough before baking. It will give your focaccia a truly irresistible aroma.
Serving and Storage
Now that your garlic and herb focaccia bread is ready, it’s time to enjoy it!
Serving suggestions
You can serve the focaccia bread as an appetizer, alongside a bowl of warm soup, or as a side dish to accompany your main course. It is also delicious when sliced and used as a base for sandwiches or paninis.
Storing the focaccia
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. The focaccia can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until it is heated through.
Now that you know how to make a scrumptious garlic and herb focaccia bread, it’s time to gather the ingredients and get baking. Enjoy the process and savor the delightful flavors of homemade focaccia!
