Are you dreaming of warm, crusty bread that's bursting with flavor? Forget the bakery line – this Sur La Table-inspired focaccia recipe is incredibly easy to make at home, resulting in a deliciously golden-brown loaf perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving alongside pasta, or simply enjoying on its own. This recipe is a testament to how simple healthy meals and homemade cooking can be, even for beginners. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, plus extra for drizzling and greasing
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Mixing and Kneading:
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Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
First Rise:
- Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Second Rise:
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Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. Gently press the dough into the pan, stretching it to reach the corners.
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Drizzle the dough with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Using your fingertips, dimple the surface of the dough all over. This creates those characteristic focaccia pockets.
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Sprinkle evenly with dried rosemary, oregano, and coarse sea salt.
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Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Baking:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a mix of olive oil and melted butter.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate roasted cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, or sliced olives into the dough before the second rise.
- Experiment with herbs: Try different combinations of herbs like thyme, basil, or sage.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the dough before baking.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your focaccia and adjust the baking time as needed. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This Sur La Table-inspired focaccia is a fantastic addition to any meal, offering a delightful blend of taste and texture. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating this delicious and easy bread recipe! It’s a perfect example of how simple delicious dishes can be. Enjoy!