Focaccia

This homemade focaccia, rich with high-quality olive oil, delivers a soft, flavorful bread with a perfectly golden crust. Infused with rosemary and topped with flaky sea salt, it’s ideal as a side dish, for sandwiches, or simply on its own.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 3/4 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 1/2 cup high-quality olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Set aside.
   • In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat the dough in the oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare for Baking:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a large baking sheet or a 9×13 inch baking pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
   • Punch down the dough and turn it out onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your fingers to press and stretch the dough to fit the pan, creating dimples in the surface.
5. Second Rise:
   • Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil over the top of the dough. Sprinkle with the remaining kosher salt, rosemary (if using), and flaky sea salt.
   • Let the dough rise for another 20-30 minutes until slightly puffed.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious homemade focaccia!

Feel free to customize the focaccia with other toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions according to your taste.