Best Easy Focaccia Recipe by Claire Saffitz
If you love bread, then you must try this incredible focaccia recipe by Claire Saffitz. Focaccia is a traditional Italian bread that is known for its soft and chewy texture, as well as its delicious herb-infused flavor. With this easy recipe, you can make your own homemade focaccia that will rival any bakery.
Ingredients:
– 500g bread flour
– 10g instant yeast
– 400ml warm water
– 2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves
– Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and warm water. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, add the salt and olive oil to the dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough in it. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet with olive oil and transfer the dough onto it. Gently stretch and press the dough to fit the size of the baking sheet.
5. Using your fingers, create small dimples all over the dough. Drizzle olive oil over the surface and sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt on top.
6. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns golden brown on top.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Now, let’s move on to some commonly asked questions about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
A1: While all-purpose flour can be used, bread flour will give you a better texture and rise. If you don’t have bread flour, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vital wheat gluten to every cup of all-purpose flour.
Q2: How long does the focaccia last?
A2: Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to a month.
Q3: Can I add other toppings to the focaccia?
A3: Absolutely! Focaccia is versatile and can be topped with various ingredients like olives, cherry tomatoes, onions, or even cheese. Get creative and experiment with different flavors.
Q4: Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
A4: Fresh rosemary provides a more vibrant flavor, but if you don’t have it, dried rosemary can be used as a substitute. However, use it sparingly as dried herbs are more potent.
Q5: Can I make the dough in advance?
A5: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This will result in a deeper flavor. Just make sure to bring the dough to room temperature before baking.
Q6: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A6: Yes, you can swap instant yeast for active dry yeast in equal amounts. However, you don’t need to activate instant yeast in warm water before using it.
Q7: Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?
A7: Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can be used to knead the dough. Mix on low speed for 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy making this delicious focaccia by Claire Saffitz and impress your friends and family with your homemade bread skills.