Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Tomato Basil Focaccia Bread. This Italian delight is not just a side dish; it's a culinary experience that elevates any meal! With its golden crust, fluffy interior, and bursts of juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, this focaccia will have your friends and family begging for more. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your hand at bread-making for the first time, this recipe promises to deliver mouthwatering results in just 35 minutes. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the art of making this delicious focaccia!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbling, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Add olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir gently to combine. Gradually incorporate flour and salt, mixing until a soft, sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lightly greasing it with olive oil or lining with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Gently stretch and press the dough to cover the entire sheet, creating dimples with your fingertips.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough surface. Arrange halved cherry tomatoes across the dough, pressing them slightly into the surface.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil and dried oregano evenly over the focaccia. Add a light pinch of sea salt if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm.
Tips
- Activate Your Yeast: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot (around 110°F or 43°C) to properly activate the yeast. This is crucial for achieving that perfect rise!
- Kneading Technique: When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push the dough away, then fold it back over itself. This helps develop gluten, giving your focaccia its wonderful texture.
- Perfect Dimples: When stretching the dough on the baking sheet, make sure to create deep dimples with your fingertips. This not only adds character but also holds the olive oil and toppings beautifully.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add olives, garlic, or even cheese for a unique twist. The focaccia is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your focaccia is perfectly baked, tap the bottom; it should sound hollow. This is a great indicator that it’s ready to come out of the oven!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm as an appetizer, alongside a salad, or as a delicious sandwich base. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil or balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
