Marco Dupont Focaccia bread is a traditional Italian flatbread that is typically seasoned with olive oil and sea salt. It is made with a simple yeast dough and is often topped with fresh herbs, garlic, cheese, or other flavorful ingredients. Focaccia has a crispy crust and a soft, chewy texture that is perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or dipping into oil and vinegar. It is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed at any time of day and is a staple of Italian cuisine.
Focaccia Bread
- Total Time: 15 hours 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Coarse sea salt
- Rosemary leaves
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer mix the water and yeast.
- Add the flour, salt, and some rosemary. Mix on medium-low until there is no dough stuck to the sides of the bowl.
- Form a ball with the dough and coat it in olive oil.
- Place the dough in a bowl, cover it, and place in the refrigerator for 12 hours to three days.
- Line a 9″ x 13″ pan with parchment paper, and coat the parchment paper with 2 Tbsp of olive oil.
- Remove the dough from the bowl using a fork and spread it out in the pan.
- Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rest for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 425° F.
- Pour 2 Tbsp. of olive oil over the dough, then use your fingers to make dimples in the dough and spread it out so that it fills the pan.
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt and rosemary on top the dough.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes in the middle rack, until golden.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before cutting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rise Time: 15 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Focaccia bread has been around for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome. Flatbreads were popular among Roman soldiers and farmers, and over time, the recipe evolved into the focaccia we know today.
Making focaccia is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. The dough is made with flour, yeast, salt, water, and olive oil. The dough is then kneaded for at least 10 minutes to create a soft, supple texture. After it has risen, the dough is shaped, topped with olive oil, sea salt, and any desired toppings, and then baked in a hot oven until golden brown.
Focaccia toppings can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some popular toppings include rosemary, garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, and onions. Cheese can also be added, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, which adds a delicious depth of flavor to the bread.
Focaccia bread can be enjoyed on its own, as a side dish, or as a base for a sandwich. Its versatility makes it a popular choice among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Focaccia can also be used in a panzanella salad, where the bread is combined with tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and basil.
Another popular use for focaccia is to make a sandwich. The bread can be sliced and then filled with meats, cheese, and vegetables. It can also be toasted to create a warm, crispy exterior that complements the fillings.
Focaccia bread is not just limited to savory dishes. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet bread. One popular version is to add sugar and raisins to the dough, creating a sweet and chewy bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
In conclusion, focaccia bread is a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Its crispy exterior and soft, airy interior make it the perfect bread for sandwiches, dipping, or as a side dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, focaccia is a great option for novice bakers or those looking to experiment with new flavors.
