Are you ready to elevate your bread-baking game with a stunning and delicious Pink Focaccia that requires no mixer? This Italian delight is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Imagine pulling a golden-brown focaccia from your oven, its surface adorned with vibrant pink salt and fresh herbs, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. In just 45 minutes, you can create a show-stopping centerpiece for your next meal or gathering. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let's dive into this simple yet impressive recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 large focaccia
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pink salt for topping
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast to the water mixture. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
- In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to knead it in the bowl for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 20 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare a baking sheet by drizzling it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and spread it out with your hands to form a large rectangle or circle, about 1 inch thick.
- Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. This will help to hold the olive oil and toppings.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the dough, ensuring it seeps into the dimples. Sprinkle pink salt generously over the surface.
- Scatter fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme over the top of the focaccia for added flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the focaccia rests for an additional 10 minutes to rise slightly.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the focaccia in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying the delightful flavors of the pink salt and fresh herbs.
Tips
- Use Warm Water: Make sure the water is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast properly. A temperature around 110°F (43°C) is ideal.
- Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. You can also experiment with other herbs such as oregano or basil for a unique twist.
- Dimpling Technique: When creating dimples in the dough, use your fingertips to press down firmly but gently. This will help create pockets for the olive oil and toppings to soak in.
- Let it Rise: Don’t rush the rising process. Allow the dough to double in size for the best texture and flavor. A warm, draft-free environment is perfect for this.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your focaccia is perfectly baked, tap the bottom; it should sound hollow. If it’s not quite there, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Serve Fresh: Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but it can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
