This Big Bubble Focaccia is an easy-to-make Italian classic with an airy texture and rich olive oil flavor. With just five simple ingredients, you’ll create a beautifully golden, fluffy focaccia that’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying on its own.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) high-protein bread flour (at least 12% protein)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil (plus more for greasing and topping)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- Optional toppings: Olives, rosemary, sea salt
Directions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 1 ½ cups warm water, 2 teaspoons salt, ¼ cup olive oil, and 2 teaspoons instant yeast. Whisk until the salt dissolves.
- Mix in the flour: Gradually add 4 cups bread flour and stir until a sticky dough forms.
2. Stretch and Fold Technique:
- Rest the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Perform stretch and folds: Wet your hands and lift one side of the dough, stretching it and folding it over. Rotate the bowl and repeat for a total of 4 folds.
- Repeat: Perform the stretch and fold process every 30 minutes for a total of 4 times.
3. Rest and Rise:
- Final rise: After the final fold, cover the dough and let it rest for 30 more minutes.
- Refrigeration option: You can refrigerate the dough overnight to enhance the flavor, or let it rise at room temperature for an additional hour.
4. Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Grease the pan: Generously grease a baking pan with about 3 tablespoons olive oil. If needed, line the pan with parchment paper and oil it.
- Transfer the dough: Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, trying not to deflate the bubbles. Let it rise for another hour.
5. Shape and Bake:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Dimple the dough: Drizzle more olive oil on the dough, then use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface. Add optional toppings like olives, rosemary, or sea salt.
- Bake: Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the focaccia is cooked through.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Cool: Remove from the oven and transfer the focaccia to a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- With olive oil and balsamic vinegar: Dip slices into a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a classic Italian appetizer.
- For sandwiches: Slice the focaccia horizontally and fill with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and arugula.
- As a side: Pair with soups, salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Use high-protein bread flour: This helps achieve the desired airy texture and big bubbles.
- Wet your hands: When handling the dough, wet your hands to prevent sticking.
- Generous with olive oil: Use plenty of olive oil for flavor and to create the perfect crust.
- Let the dough rise properly: Allow the dough to rise fully to get those beautiful bubbles.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Bread flour: Provides protein and carbohydrates for energy.
- Olive oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Yeast: Adds B-vitamins and aids in dough fermentation.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Contains no meat products.
- Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan.
- Dairy-Free: Contains no dairy products.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple ingredients: Only five basic ingredients are needed.
- Soft, airy texture: Achieves the perfect airy texture with delicious olive oil flavor.
- Versatile: Great for sandwiches, sides, or snacking.
- Beautiful presentation: The big bubbles and golden crust make it a showstopper at the table.
Conclusion:
This Soft Big Bubble Focaccia is a delicious addition to any meal, whether served as a side, for sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own. With its airy texture, rich olive oil flavor, and beautiful golden crust, this recipe is sure to impress. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a must-try for any home baker. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour will give better structure and larger bubbles. - Do I need to refrigerate the dough overnight?
No, but refrigerating the dough enhances the flavor and makes it easier to handle. - Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Add your favorite toppings like herbs, vegetables, or cheese. - How do I know when the focaccia is done?
It should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free bread flour blend. - Why is my dough too sticky to handle?
High-hydration doughs are sticky; use wet hands for easier handling. - Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, both types of yeast work in this recipe. - How do I prevent the focaccia from sticking to the pan?
Generously grease the pan with olive oil, and use parchment paper if necessary. - Can I use flavored olive oil?
Yes, flavored oils like garlic or rosemary add extra flavor. - How long should I let the dough rise?
Let it rise until it doubles in size, which can vary depending on room temperature.
Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious focaccia!