Imagine pulling a golden, herb-infused focaccia bread out of your oven, its warm aroma filling your kitchen and enticing everyone around. This easy vegan focaccia bread recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a delightful experience that you can create in just 40 minutes! Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this loaf will elevate any meal or stand alone as a delicious snack. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this simple recipe promises to impress. Get ready to dive into a world of flavor and texture that will have your friends and family begging for more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc.)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and activated.
- Add olive oil to the yeast mixture and whisk together thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt, creating a well in the center.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it out with your fingers to create dimples across the surface.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough and sprinkle fresh herbs generously across the top.
- Let the dough rest and rise again for 20 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from oven, let cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, opt for fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. They add a fragrant touch that elevates the bread to new heights.
- Check Yeast Freshness: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for optimal rising. If it doesn’t foam after mixing with water, it may be expired.
- Knead Well: Take your time kneading the dough. A well-kneaded dough is key to achieving that perfect texture—smooth and elastic!
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for added flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place. This step is crucial for developing the bread's flavor and texture.
- Bake on Parchment: Using parchment paper on your baking sheet will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Cool Before Slicing: Let the focaccia cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to maintain its structure and warmth. With these tips in mind, you’re all set to bake a delicious loaf of vegan focaccia that will impress everyone at the table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 293kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
