Focaccia is one of the simplest breads you can make. It doesn’t take much skill, and you don’t have to knead it for long.
That said, there are a few things you should know to bake a perfectly crisp and airy focaccia. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.
Read on to learn how to make the best focaccia you’ve ever eaten!
What Is Focaccia?
Focaccia is a traditional Italian bread that’s typically flat but leavened. It’s one of the most ancient breads in history and is the precursor to pizza.
What makes focaccia great is its versatility. You can make it plain, or get creative with the ingredients. This bread can cater to different palates and flavor preferences!
How Do You Make the Best Focaccia?
The best focaccia is beautifully golden and crisp. It’s dimpled, savory, and crusty with a soft center.
Here’s how to achieve the perfect focaccia.
1 – Ingredients
You only need a few basic ingredients to make focaccia. Because of this, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality ingredients for the best results.
The flour, in particular, is the most important component of the dish. In general, the higher the protein content, the better the bread’s structure will become.
I recommend using double-zero flour for a smooth, elastic dough.
2 – Hydration
Hydration refers to the ratio of water to the flour you use. To make focaccia, you need at least 70% hydration, meaning the weight of the water should be 70% of the weight of the flour.
This high hydration allows you to form larger air pockets. It also helps develop a deeper flavor and produces a moister crumb.
3 – Proofing Time
Proofing time contributes to the distinct taste of good quality focaccia bread. The longer you let the yeast rise, the more flavor compounds it’ll develop.
The best focaccia bread will need at least 18 hours of proofing, so patience is key.
4 – Baking Temperature
Another factor affecting your focaccia is baking temperature. As a high-hydration bread, focaccia must be baked in a scorching oven.
The high oven temperature lets you create rapid steam in the dough. It produces an airy middle and a crusty exterior.
5 – Flavor
Finally, delicious focaccia bread has all the toppings you like.
You can get creative with what you put on the focaccia. Be generous with the herbs and vegetables for the best results!
The Best Focaccia Recipe
Here’s a quick recipe for the best focaccia bread.
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 cups high protein 00 flour
- 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp water
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Spice or topping of your choice
Instructions
Combine the flour, yeast, salt, and water in a large bowl. Stir for three minutes or until you form a sticky dough.
Next, place the dough in a well-oiled bowl and cover it with cling film or a damp cloth. Let the dough rise for an hour, then transfer it to the fridge to rise for another 14 hours.
Afterward, wet your hands and take the dough out of the fridge. Gently flatten and stretch the dough over a well-oiled baking dish.
Cover the dough and let it rise for three more hours at room temperature.
Once risen, drizzle olive oil over the dough, then make dimples along the surface with your fingers.
Top the focaccia with herbs, olives, tomatoes, onions, or other ingredients of your choice.
Finally, bake it in a preheated oven at 428°F for 20 to 25 minutes!
Final Thoughts
Making delicious focaccia is easy once you know the basic principles behind it. The trick is to use high-quality ingredients and follow the proper hydration and baking temperatures.
Lastly, remain patient with your dough and let it develop flavors over time. Don’t be afraid to get creative, and you can make the best focaccia of your life!
Sarah is the founder of Baking Kneads, LLC, a blog sharing guides, tips, and recipes for those learning how to bake. Growing up as the daughter of a baker, she spent much of her childhood learning the basics in a local bakery.