Foccacia

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home. Today, we bring you a delightful recipe for creating your own delicious and fragrant Focaccia. This classic Italian bread is simple to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether enjoyed as a snack, served as an appetizer, or paired with a cozy bowl of soup, Focaccia is sure to charm your taste buds with its light, fluffy texture and savory flavors.

**Focaccia**

**Ingredients:**

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups warm water
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– Sea salt, for sprinkling

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Yeast:** In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready for use.

2. **Mix and Knead the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Use a wooden spoon to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

3. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. **Shape the Dough:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your hands to gently press and stretch the dough into a rectangular shape, about ½ inch thick.

5. **Second Rise:** Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during this time.

6. **Decorate the Focaccia:** Using your fingers, make indentations all over the dough. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the top. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and sea salt evenly over the surface.

7. **Bake:** Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The bread will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. **Serve:** Once baked, remove the Focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature with your favorite dips, olive oil, or as a side to soups and salads.

Focaccia is a versatile bread that welcomes a variety of toppings, such as cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or even a sprinkle of cheese. Feel free to get creative and experiment with flavors that suit your preferences. This homemade Focaccia will undoubtedly elevate any meal or make a comforting snack that your family and friends will love. Remember, the key to a successful Focaccia lies in taking your time with the dough and allowing it to rise properly for that perfect airy and flavorful result. Happy baking!