Roasted Garlic Focaccia with Rosemary

If you’re looking for an incredible bread to elevate your meals or simply enjoy on its own, look no further than this Roasted Garlic Focaccia with Rosemary. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy crust that gives way to a soft, airy interior, all infused with the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic and the aromatic touch of fresh rosemary. This focaccia is not just your ordinary bread; it’s a symphony of flavors that will have your family and friends raving about your baking skills.

Making focaccia from scratch might sound daunting, but I assure you, it’s a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients and effort. There’s something magical about transforming simple flour, water, and yeast into a heavenly loaf of bread. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Roasted Garlic Focaccia with Rosemary lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved through roasting garlic. Roasting mellows the sharpness of the garlic, creating a sweet and nutty flavor profile that complements the bread beautifully. The combination of fresh rosemary adds an earthy aroma that elevates the focaccia from simple to extraordinary. Plus, the generous drizzle of olive oil not only enhances the taste but also contributes to that signature crispy crust we all love.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 cup olive oil
• 1 large head of garlic, cut in half widthwise
• 1 envelope (2 teaspoons) active dry yeast (not rapid rising)
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 4 cups white flour
• 2 teaspoons fine grain sea salt
• Just under 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped, fresh rosemary (from 3-4 sprigs)
• Flaky sea salt for topping

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing the dough.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of your ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet to hold your focaccia during baking.
• Plastic Wrap or Damp Towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
• Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling hot pans.

Roasted Garlic Focaccia with Rosemary: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved garlic head on a sheet of aluminum foil, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and wrap it up tightly. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Once done, let it cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted garlic into a bowl, discarding the skins.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the roasted garlic, the remaining olive oil (reserving a tablespoon for drizzling later), and the fine grain sea salt. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Gradually add the white flour to the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Once combined, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Focaccia

Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Gently stretch and press the dough out to fit the dimensions of the pan. Use your fingertips to create dimples across the surface, which will hold the olive oil and salt later.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 7: Add Toppings

Once the dough has risen, drizzle the reserved tablespoon of olive oil over the top and sprinkle with coarsely chopped rosemary and flaky sea salt. For an extra touch, you can also add a few more sprigs of fresh rosemary on top.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Slice it into squares or wedges and serve warm. Enjoy every bite of this Roasted Garlic Focaccia with Rosemary!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the white flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano instead of rosemary.
• Oil: Use avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer.
• Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly, but ensure your yeast is from a vegan source.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Focaccia is incredibly versatile. You can add toppings such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even caramelized onions before baking. The texture of the focaccia improves after a day, so if you can resist, let it sit overnight before indulging. This bread also pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To store, wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Questions People Ask

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may yield a denser focaccia. Consider using a mix of whole wheat and white flour for better texture.

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast mixture becomes frothy after a few minutes of sitting in warm water, it is active. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, and you should try again with fresh yeast.

Can I add other toppings to the focaccia?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like olives, cheese, or various herbs to customize your focaccia to your liking.

What should I serve with focaccia?

Focaccia pairs beautifully with soups, pasta, or salads. It can also be enjoyed on its own or used as a sandwich base, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

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• Sally’s Baking Addiction
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• Minimalist Baker
• Bon Appétit

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve mastered this Roasted Garlic Focaccia with Rosemary, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Slice it warm, slather on some butter or dip it in olive oil, and watch your loved ones enjoy the fruits of your hard work. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this focaccia will undoubtedly steal the show. Remember to share your creations and inspire others to bake their own delicious focaccia. Happy baking!