Garlic Herb Focaccia

This fragrant focaccia bread is infused with garlic and a medley of fresh herbs, boasting a wonderfully chewy interior and a crisp, golden crust. It's perfect as a side dish, for sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Garlic Herb Focaccia
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 23 minutes
  • Total time: 38 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1.25 cups warm water
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Flaky sea salt for topping

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add warm water and 1/4 cup olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Transfer dough to a well-oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Generously oil a 9x13 inch baking pan. Turn dough out into the pan and gently stretch it to fit.
  5. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  7. Dimple the top of the dough with your fingers. Drizzle generously with olive oil.
  8. Scatter minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme over the dough. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Tips

  • Don't skip the dimpling; it helps the oil and herbs penetrate the dough.
  • Use plenty of olive oil for a truly authentic focaccia texture.
  • Allow the dough to rise sufficiently for a light and airy interior.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I store focaccia?

Store cooled focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs called for (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried rosemary instead of 1 tablespoon fresh).

What kind of flour is best for focaccia?

While all-purpose flour works well, bread flour can also be used for a chewier texture.