Name: Easy Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 tbsp warm water; 2½ tsp active dry yeast; 1 tsp white sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¼ tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 sprigs fresh rosemary

Known for its characteristic dimples and aromatic rosemary topping, this easy rosemary focaccia recipe is a delightful introduction to the world of Italian bread making. The soft and chewy texture combined with the earthy rosemary makes this bread a perfect side for any meal or a delicious snack on its own.

Photos of Easy Rosemary Focaccia Recipe

The recipe calls for active dry yeast, a key ingredient in bread making. It is responsible for causing the dough to rise and give it that fluffy texture. You can easily find this in the baking section of your local supermarket. Fresh rosemary is another key ingredient. While dry rosemary can be used, fresh rosemary sprigs are preferred for the best flavor.

Key Ingredients for Easy Rosemary Focaccia

water: Helps in activating the yeast and also in binding the dough.

active dry yeast: Acts as a leavening agent which makes the bread rise and gives it a soft texture.

white sugar: Aids in activating the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness to the bread.

all-purpose flour: The base ingredient for the bread, provides the structure.

salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the bread.

olive oil: Adds moisture and enriches the flavor of the focaccia.

fresh rosemary: Brings an aromatic and earthy flavor to the bread.

One reader, Adrea Schwab says:

This easy rosemary focaccia recipe is a game-changer! The aroma of fresh rosemary and the crispy, golden crust make it irresistible. The simple steps and minimal ingredients make it a go-to for a quick homemade bread fix. It's a winner in my book!

Adrea Schwab

Essential Techniques for Making Rosemary Focaccia

How to activate yeast: Yeast needs to be activated with warm water and sugar to become active and start the fermentation process. This step is crucial for the dough to rise properly.

How to knead dough: Kneading the dough helps develop gluten and creates a smooth, elastic texture. It involves folding the dough, pressing it with the heels of your hands, then turning it and repeating the process.

How to let dough rise: After kneading, the dough needs to be placed in a warm, draft-free place to double in volume. This allows the yeast to ferment and create air pockets, resulting in a light and airy texture.

How to shape the focaccia: After the dough has risen, it needs to be shaped by patting or rolling it into a sheet and then transferred to the prepared baking sheet.

How to create dimples: Using your fingertips, press down on the shaped dough to create dimples across the surface. This step helps create the characteristic texture of focaccia.

How to bake the focaccia: The focaccia should be baked in a preheated oven until it reaches the desired level of crispness, whether light and fluffy or crunchier and darker on the outside.

How To Make Easy Rosemary Focaccia

Spice up your focaccia bread by seasoning it with a good amount of rosemary and olive oil. This rosemary focaccia is filling and rich in aroma.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5tbspwarm water,or more as needed
2½tspactive dry yeast
1tspwhite sugar
2cupsall-purpose flour
¼tspsalt,or more to taste
2tbspolive oil,divided
3sprigsfresh rosemary,leaves stripped

Instructions

Combine 5 tablespoons of warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let stand until creamy for about 10 minutes.
Add flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture; stir well to combine. Stir in 1 tablespoon additional water at a time, if necessary, until all flour is absorbed and the mixture has pulled together into a dough.
Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until springy for 4 to 6 minutes.
Lightly oil a large bowl. Place dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 465 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead briefly, then pat or roll dough into a sheet and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Brush with remaining oil and make dimples across the surface with your fingertips. Sprinkle with rosemary leave and extra salt to taste.
Bake in the preheated oven to desired crispness for about 10 minutes for a light and fluffy or 20 minutes for crunchier and darker on the outside.

Nutrition

Calories: 304.27kcal
Fat: 7.77g
Saturated Fat: 1.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.00g
Carbohydrates: 50.55g
Fiber: 2.89g
Sugar: 1.22g
Protein: 7.59g
Sodium: 149.73mg
Calcium: 22.74mg
Potassium: 115.92mg
Iron: 3.24mg
Vitamin A: 5.47µg
Vitamin C: 0.82mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Rosemary Focaccia

When kneading the dough, it's important to use the heel of your hand to push and stretch the dough. This technique, known as 'push and fold', helps to develop the gluten in the flour, giving your focaccia a chewy texture. Also, when adding the rosemary, try to press it gently into the dimples you've created. This ensures the herb stays put and infuses its flavor into the bread during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Focaccia

Prep ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This will save time on the day of baking. Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough, saving time and effort. Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all the ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and minimize prep time. Bake multiple loaves: Consider doubling the recipe and baking multiple loaves to have extra for later or to share with friends and family. Invest in a pizza stone: Using a pizza stone can help achieve a crispy crust, eliminating the need to constantly monitor the baking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Rosemary Focaccia Recipe

warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add richness and tenderness to the focaccia, resulting in a softer texture.
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients without proofing, saving time and simplifying the process.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a touch of sweetness and also contribute to the browning of the focaccia crust.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a chewier and more structured focaccia.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can enhance the flavor of the focaccia and provide a satisfying crunch to the crust.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a versatile and heat-stable option for baking.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary can be used as a substitute, but in smaller quantities, as it has a more concentrated flavor compared to fresh rosemary.

Essential Tools for Making Focaccia at Home

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients and kneading the dough.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to bake the focaccia in the oven.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the focaccia to perfection.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used to brush the focaccia with olive oil before baking.
Knife: A knife is used to cut the rosemary sprigs and to make dimples across the surface of the focaccia.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Focaccia

Once the focaccia has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Stored properly at room temperature, it should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.
If you want to keep the focaccia for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 1 month:
- Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the package with the date so you can keep track of when it was frozen.
To thaw frozen focaccia:
- Remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 2-3 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
- To reheat, wrap the focaccia in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore some of its original crispness and texture.
If you only need a portion of the focaccia, you can slice it before freezing and wrap individual portions separately. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need, while the rest remains frozen for later use.

How To Reheat Leftover Focaccia

To reheat leftover focaccia, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wrap the focaccia in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the focaccia is heated through and the crust is crispy. This method helps to retain the moisture and texture of the bread.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the focaccia directly on the rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it works well for smaller pieces of focaccia.
If you prefer a softer crust, you can reheat the focaccia in the microwave. Place the focaccia on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, or until the bread is heated through. This method is fast, but it may result in a slightly softer crust.
For a crispy crust and a soft interior, you can use a combination of the oven and microwave methods. First, wrap the focaccia in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the foil and microwave the focaccia on high for 10-15 seconds. This method helps to restore the texture of the bread while also heating it through quickly.
If you have a panini press or a grill pan, you can use it to reheat the focaccia. Preheat the press or pan to medium-high heat and place the focaccia inside. Press down firmly and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy. This method adds a nice grilled flavor to the focaccia and works well for individual slices.

Interesting Fact About Rosemary Focaccia

The focaccia bread is believed to have originated in ancient Rome and is a popular Italian flatbread. It is often flavored with rosemary and olive oil, giving it a distinct and delicious taste.

Is Making Focaccia at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this rosemary focaccia recipe is quite high. The main ingredients, such as flour, yeast, and olive oil, are affordable and readily available. The addition of fresh rosemary may require a small investment, but it adds a delightful flavor. Overall, this recipe is budget-friendly and provides a delicious homemade bread option. Rating: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $5-$7.

Is Rosemary Focaccia Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy rosemary focaccia recipe is relatively healthy compared to other bread recipes, but it still has room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:

Positives:

The recipe uses olive oil, which is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
Rosemary is a nutritious herb that contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
The recipe is homemade, allowing for control over the ingredients and portion sizes

Negatives:

The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain flours
The recipe contains added sugar, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large amounts
The recipe lacks additional nutritious ingredients like vegetables or seeds that could enhance its overall healthiness

To make this focaccia recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a mix of whole grain flours to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of added sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Incorporate additional healthy ingredients like chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or sesame seeds to boost flavor and nutrition
Experiment with using a mix of herbs, such as thyme or oregano, along with the rosemary to add more antioxidants and flavor variety
Be mindful of portion sizes and enjoy the focaccia as part of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats

Editor's Opinion on This Rosemary Focaccia Recipe

This easy rosemary focaccia recipe is a delightful choice for any occasion. The combination of yeast and rosemary creates a tantalizing aroma that will fill your kitchen. The simple steps make it accessible for all levels of bakers, and the end result is a golden, crispy crust with a soft, fluffy interior. The addition of rosemary adds a fragrant and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the olive oil. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this focaccia is sure to impress with its rustic charm and delicious taste.

Enhance Your Easy Rosemary Focaccia Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Try serving the rosemary focaccia with a side of crispy garlic parmesan roasted potatoes for a delicious and savory combination.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: For a healthy and flavorful side, pair the rosemary focaccia with balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze complements the herbaceous flavor of the focaccia.

Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings: Add a kick of heat to your meal by serving the rosemary focaccia with honey sriracha chicken wings. The spicy and sweet flavors of the wings will contrast nicely with the savory bread.

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: For an elegant and sophisticated side dish, consider serving the rosemary focaccia with a caramelized onion and goat cheese tart. The rich and creamy flavors of the tart will complement the herbaceous notes of the focaccia.

Lemon Thyme Roasted Carrots: Enhance the meal by pairing the rosemary focaccia with lemon thyme roasted carrots. The bright and citrusy flavors of the carrots will add a refreshing element to the dish.

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Berry Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious and satisfying dessert that combines fresh berries with chia seeds and creamy almond milk. A guilt-free treat for any time of day.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Rosemary Focaccia

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of fettuccine for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Whip up a hearty and comforting dish by simmering tender strips of beef in a creamy and savory sauce. Serve it over a bed of buttery egg noodles for a classic and delicious main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent, silky smooth chocolate mousse that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The rich and creamy texture of this dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious treat.

Apple Pie: Enjoy the comforting warmth and sweet aroma of a freshly baked apple pie. The combination of tender, spiced apples and flaky, buttery crust will transport you to a cozy autumn day.

Why trust this Easy Rosemary Focaccia Recipe:

This recipe uses active dry yeast to ensure a perfect rise, while the addition of olive oil creates a rich flavor and a delightful texture. The aromatic rosemary adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall taste. With careful attention to detail and precise measurements, this recipe guarantees a delicious and authentic focaccia experience. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for a delightful culinary creation.

Have you tried this Easy Rosemary Focaccia Recipe? Share your experience and any tips you may have in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long does it take for the dough to rise?

The dough typically takes about 30 minutes to double in volume during the rising process.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh rosemary?

Yes, you can use dried rosemary instead of fresh rosemary. Just use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary in place of the fresh sprigs.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply cover the dough tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, then proceed with shaping and baking.

Can I freeze the focaccia?

Yes, you can freeze the focaccia. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Can I add other toppings to the focaccia?

Absolutely! You can customize the focaccia with various toppings such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even different herbs like thyme or oregano. Just add your desired toppings before baking.