Focaccia Recipe: A Classic Italian Bread

Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsWelcome to the world of Italian cuisine with our mouth-watering food network focaccia recipe. Focaccia, a flatbread……

Guide or Summary：

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions

Welcome to the world of Italian cuisine with our mouth-watering food network focaccia recipe. Focaccia, a flatbread with a rustic texture and a rich, savory flavor, is a staple in Italian kitchens and a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide. This delectable bread is perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or simply enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Ingredients

To make this authentic food network focaccia recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, rosemary, and parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, mix together the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and active.

2. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

3. **Add Wet Ingredients**: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.

4. **Knead the Dough**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

5. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. **Punch Down and Shape**: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a rectangle or square, depending on your preference.

7. **Second Rise**: Transfer the shaped dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

8. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Toppings**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the dough is rising, prepare your toppings by mincing garlic and slicing cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts.

9. **Bake the Focaccia**: Once the dough has risen again, spread the minced garlic evenly over the top of the dough. Then, add your desired toppings. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and rosemary.

10. **Bake**: Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread is cooked through.

11. **Cool and Enjoy**: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade focaccia with a glass of your favorite Italian wine!

This food network focaccia recipe is a simple yet delicious way to bring the flavors of Italy into your own home. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a mouth-watering focaccia that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let's make some focaccia!