How to Make Delicious Rosemary Focaccia Bread - VLOGMAS DAY 2

Day two of my #VLOGMAS2021 continues as I try for the very first time making the Rosemary Focaccia bread. It is quite simple and looks great once it is cooked. Focaccia is a flat leavened oven-baked Italian bread, similar in style and texture to pizza; in some places, it is called "pizza bianca". Focaccia can be served as a side dish or as sandwich bread. Are you ready to elevate your bread-baking game? Look no further than this delightful Rosemary Focaccia Bread recipe. With its fragrant rosemary infusion and perfectly crispy crust, this bread is a game-changer in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're an experienced baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is your ticket to bread heaven.

For the Bread Enthusiasts

If you're passionate about baking and crave the aroma of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen, this Rosemary Focaccia Bread recipe is tailor-made for you. It's a recipe that rewards patience and attention to detail, resulting in a bread that's a visual masterpiece and a treat for your taste buds. The combination of warm water, sugar or honey, yeast, and olive oil creates a dough that's easy to work with and ensures a light, airy crumb.

Why Rosemary Focaccia Bread?

Rosemary Focaccia Bread is a classic Italian bread that has won the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Its simplicity is its strength - the recipe relies on a few quality ingredients and the magic of time. Here's why it's a must-try:

1. Aromatherapy in the Kitchen: The scent of fresh rosemary infusing the bread as it bakes is an experience in itself. It'll transport you to a rustic Italian kitchen.
2. Versatility: Focaccia bread is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as an appetizer with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, as a sandwich bread, or alongside your favorite pasta dish.
3. Texture and Flavor: The combination of flaky sea salt and olive oil creates a crispy, golden crust, while the interior remains tender and flavorful.
4. Impress Your Guests: If you're hosting a dinner party, serving homemade Rosemary Focaccia Bread will undoubtedly earn you culinary nods

INGREDIENTS

Ingredients You'll Need

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Oven

Ingredients:

• 1 1/3 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons sugar or honey
• 1 packet instant or dry active yeast
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar or honey. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

2. Make the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt.
• Pour in the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

• Flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it.
• Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a bit more flour if it's too sticky.

4. First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape and Second Rise

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
• Gently press it out to cover the entire sheet.
• Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise again for 20-30 minutes.

6. Add Rosemary and Olive Oil

• Using your fingers, create dimples in the dough.
• Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with fresh rosemary leaves.
• Sprinkle the remaining sea salt over the top.

7. Bake to Perfection

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the Rosemary Focaccia Bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.
• Pair it with your favorite dips, soups, or use it to make scrumptious sandwiches.

Notes and Tips

• If you want a more intense rosemary flavor, you can infuse the olive oil with rosemary by heating it gently and letting it cool before using.
• Feel free to experiment with toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or even caramelized onions.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use dried rosemary, but keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so use them sparingly.

Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free? A: You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

Q: How can I make the focaccia extra crispy? A: For a crisper crust, you can brush the dough with a bit of extra olive oil before baking.