Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked sourdough focaccia. With its crispy edges, airy crumb, and olive oil-infused crust, this bread is a perfect blend of rustic charm and gourmet delight. The long fermentation process enhances its flavor, resulting in a tangy, chewy bite that pairs wonderfully with herbs, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
500g (4 cups) bread flour
100g (1/2 cup) active sourdough starter
375g (1 1/2 cups) water
10g (2 tsp) salt
50g (1/4 cup) olive oil, plus more for topping
For Topping:
Fresh rosemary or thyme
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Flaky sea salt
Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Activate the Starter:
Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting. Feed it 4-6 hours prior.
Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, and starter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
Add Salt and Oil:
Sprinkle the salt over the dough and drizzle in the olive oil. Knead gently to incorporate. The dough will be sticky, but this is normal.
Stretch and Fold:
Perform 3-4 sets of stretch and folds over a period of 2 hours. Rest the dough in between each set for 30 minutes. This helps build strength and structure.
Bulk Fermentation:
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size. For more flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Shape the Focaccia:
Transfer the dough to a well-oiled baking pan. Gently press it into the pan without deflating. Cover and let it rise for 1-2 hours.
Dimple and Top:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Drizzle more olive oil over the dough and use your fingers to create deep dimples. Sprinkle with rosemary, tomatoes, and flaky sea salt.
Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with more olive oil for dipping.
Pro Tip: Experiment with different toppings such as caramelized onions, olives, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor. Enjoy this versatile bread with soups, salads, or on its own!
