Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture); 2 teaspoons Salt (Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity); 2 teaspoons Instant Yeast (Active dry yeast can work if proofed beforehand); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Extra virgin is best for a burst of flavor); 1.5 cups Warm Water (Ensure the temperature is around 110°F); 4 cloves Minced Garlic (Garlic powder can be substituted); 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (Kosher salt is a fine alternative); 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast for a vegan option); 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or thyme, optional); 2 tablespoons Additional Olive Oil for Greasing (Ensures easy removal from the pan); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Herbs (optional, brightens the dish for presentation)

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture)

2 teaspoons salt (enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity)

2 teaspoons instant yeast (active dry yeast can work if proofed beforehand)

1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin is best for a burst of flavor)

1.5 cups warm water (ensure the temperature is around 110°F)

4 cloves minced garlic (garlic powder can be substituted)

1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (kosher salt is a fine alternative)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

1/4 cup fresh herbs (optional; rosemary or thyme add aromatic touch)

2 tablespoons additional olive oil for greasing (ensures easy removal from the pan)

1/4 cup fresh parsley or herbs (optional; brightens the dish for presentation)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in olive oil and warm water until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Grease a 9×13-inch pan generously with olive oil. After the dough has risen, gently stretch it into the pan, then cover and let it rest for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and a pinch of salt, cooking until fragrant, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Press deep dimples into the dough using your fingers. Drizzle the infused garlic oil evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and flaky sea salt.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it turns a lovely golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Cut the focaccia into squares or strips and enjoy it warm as a delightful appetizer or complementary side.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.

Use fresh rosemary or thyme to enhance the aroma and flavor.

If using active dry yeast, proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before mixing with dry ingredients.

Experiment with different toppings like olives, sundried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for variety.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you need to proof it first by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar and waiting until it becomes frothy before adding to the flour.

How do I get the focaccia to be chewy inside and crispy on the outside?

Using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour increases chewiness, and baking at a high temperature (425°F) helps create a crispy crust. Also, generous olive oil and proper resting times contribute to the texture.