Learn how to make this Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe that is not only delicious but also versatile. This Italian bread stands out with its crispy crust and chewy texture, enhanced by the rich flavor of roasted garlic and the aromatic essence of fresh rosemary. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings, this focaccia will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this focaccia recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of roasted garlic and fresh rosemary adds an incredible depth of flavor that elevates the bread experience.
- Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on its own, use it for sandwiches, or serve it alongside soups and salads.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes enough for 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
- Incredible Texture: Achieve a wonderful contrast between a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your focaccia, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet or 9×13 cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Plastic wrap
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without creating a mess.
- Baking sheet or cake pan: A crucial tool that shapes your focaccia; choose based on your desired thickness.
- Plastic wrap: Helps with dough fermentation by ensuring a warm environment during rising.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (125g) warm water (80-90°F)
- 1 cup (125g) bread flour
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- All of the biga
- 1 ½ cups (350g) warm water
- ¾ cup olive oil, (divided, plus more for coating)
- 3 cups (375g) bread flour
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 6-inch rosemary sprigs
- 1 large head garlic
- ¾ teaspoon flaky sea salt, (divided)
How to Make Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Step 1: Make the Biga
In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, bread flour, and active dry yeast. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 ½ to 2 hours. After this time, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or up to two days.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Remove the biga from the refrigerator. It should appear hydrated and slightly bubbly. In a large bowl, mix together the warm water, all of the biga (approximately 235g), and three tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until combined; it’s okay if it remains slightly chunky.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add in the remaining bread flour, kosher salt, and active dry yeast. Use a wooden spoon to mix until fully incorporated; you’ll notice a sticky dough forming. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm area for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Lift and Fold the Dough
Wet your hands before stretching the dough. Scoop underneath using your fingers and lift it gently above the bowl. Fold over itself at least three times from different edges each time. Cover again with plastic wrap. Repeat this process every half hour for approximately two and a half hours to develop structure.
Step 5: Transfer Dough to Baking Sheet
Prepare your baking surface by placing parchment paper in a baking sheet for thinner focaccia or using a greased cake pan for thicker bread. Generously coat with one-third cup of olive oil before placing in the dough.
Step 6: Stretch and Dimple Dough
Using your fingers like bird talons, gently press into multiple spots across the dough to create dimples while stretching it toward the edges of your pan. Repeat this dimpling process three to four times over one to one-and-a-half hours.
Step 7: Preheat Oven & Roast Garlic
Preheat your oven to 450°F while you roast the garlic. Slice off about a quarter inch from the top of a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, then wrap in foil. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until soft.
Step 8: Add Garlic & Rosemary
Once roasted, allow garlic to cool slightly before squeezing out individual cloves onto your focaccia dough in various spots. Strip rosemary needles from their sprigs and sprinkle them evenly over the dough as well.
Step 9: Final Dimpling & Olive Oil Drizzle
Before completing your final dimpling session, drizzle three tablespoons of olive oil over your focaccia. Sprinkle half a teaspoon of flaky sea salt before dimpling one last time.
Step 10: Bake Focaccia
Bake in preheated oven for around 18–20 minutes until golden brown with darker bubbles on top. Remove from oven when done.
Step 11: Cool & Serve
Drizzle additional olive oil over baked focaccia along with another sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Allow cooling briefly before transferring to a cutting board; enjoy as is or pair with toppings like eggplant caponata!
This Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe promises delicious results every time!
How to Serve Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Roasted garlic and rosemary focaccia is a delightful Italian bread that can elevate any meal. Its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make it a versatile choice for various occasions.
As an Appetizer
- Pair with a variety of dips such as olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or hummus for a tasty starter.
- Serve alongside a cheese platter with assorted cheeses like brie, parmesan, and goat cheese for added flavor.
With Soups
- Enjoy your focaccia dipped in hearty soups such as minestrone or tomato basil for a comforting meal.
- Use it to soak up broths in lighter soups like chicken noodle or vegetable soup.
As Sandwich Bread
- Create delicious sandwiches using the focaccia as the base; try filling it with roasted vegetables, mozzarella, and pesto.
- Make classic Italian panini with layers of cured meats, cheeses, and fresh greens.
For Salads
- Use focaccia croutons by cutting it into cubes, toasting them lightly, and adding them to salads for extra crunch.
- Pair with a simple mixed greens salad topped with vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
With Dips
- Serve warm slices alongside dips like spinach artichoke dip or tzatziki for casual gatherings.
- Create a Mediterranean-inspired spread featuring roasted garlic hummus and marinated olives.
How to Perfect Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
To achieve the best results with your roasted garlic and rosemary focaccia, consider these expert tips.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your focaccia greatly depends on the quality of your olive oil and flour. Opt for extra-virgin olive oil and bread flour for optimal taste.
- Don’t rush the dough: Allowing enough time for fermentation enhances the flavor. Follow the resting times closely to develop texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or oregano along with sea salt before baking for extra flavor.
- Check oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly to achieve that perfect golden crust. An oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
- Cool before slicing: Letting your focaccia cool slightly allows the structure to set, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
Best Side Dishes for Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Pairing your focaccia with complementary side dishes will enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
- Italian Antipasto Platter: Include cured meats, marinated veggies, olives, and cheeses for a flavorful spread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory focaccia.
- Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables tossed in olive oil or light sauce complements the bread perfectly.
- Lentil Soup: Hearty lentil soup brings warmth and nutrition while complementing the focaccia’s texture.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing provides crunch that pairs well with the soft bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making focaccia can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and water, ensuring your dough has the right consistency.
- Skipping the biga: This overnight starter adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for achieving that authentic focaccia taste.
- Under-kneading the dough: Properly develop gluten by stretching and folding the dough as instructed. This will give your focaccia its chewy texture.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Give your dough enough space to rise and expand. Using an appropriately sized pan will help achieve a crispy crust.
- Neglecting to preheat the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. A hot oven is crucial for creating that golden-brown crust.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store focaccia in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for extra freshness.
Freezing Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
- Freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.
Reheating Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm focaccia for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, but be cautious as this may make it chewy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side for a crispy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe.
What makes this Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe special?
This recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted garlic with aromatic rosemary, creating a delightful bread that’s perfect on its own or with dips.
Can I substitute other herbs in this focaccia recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano. Each will offer a unique flavor profile to your focaccia.
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
Look for a golden-brown color with darker brown bubbles. The bread should feel firm but slightly springy when gently pressed.
Is this Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of this focaccia for up to three months without losing its delicious flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or paired with dips. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or herbs!
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Indulge in the warm, aromatic delight of this Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe. This Italian bread is a perfect blend of crispy crust and soft, chewy interior, infused with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and fragrant rosemary. Ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply as a comforting snack, this focaccia will quickly become a staple in your home. Whether enjoyed plain, as a sandwich base, or paired with soups and salads, its versatility is unmatched. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious loaf that’s sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup warm water (80-90°F)
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- ¾ cup olive oil (divided)
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 head garlic
- ¾ teaspoon flaky sea salt (divided)
Instructions
- Make the Biga: Combine warm water, bread flour, and yeast in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 1½ to 2 hours before refrigerating overnight.
- Prepare Dough: Mix biga with warm water and olive oil. Stir until combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add remaining bread flour, salt, and yeast; mix until sticky dough forms. Let rest for 30 minutes.
- Lift and Fold: Wet hands, stretch dough from edges, and fold over itself every half hour for about two and a half hours.
- Transfer Dough: Place dough on parchment-lined baking sheet or greased cake pan coated with olive oil.
- Stretch & Dimple: Press fingers into dough to create dimples; repeat three to four times over an hour.
- Roast Garlic: Preheat oven to 450°F; roast garlic wrapped in foil for 25-30 minutes.
- Add Toppings: Squeeze roasted garlic onto the dough; sprinkle rosemary evenly.
- Final Dimpling & Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over dough and sprinkle with flaky salt before final dimpling.
- Bake Focaccia: Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Drizzle with olive oil before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
