Imagine pulling a golden brown focaccia out of the oven, its surface glistening with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs. This sourdough focaccia bread is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture, making every meal feel special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual night in, this bread will elevate your dining experience.
With its crispy exterior and airy, soft interior, this focaccia is the perfect canvas for various toppings like rosemary, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. The tanginess from the sourdough starter adds a delightful depth to the bread, making it an unforgettable addition to your culinary repertoire.
The Allure of Sourdough Focaccia
Sourdough focaccia offers a unique blend of flavors that enchants anyone who takes a bite. The golden-brown crust, crisp and inviting, complements the airy, fluffy interior.
Each bite reveals the tangy essence of the sourdough, creating an experience that elevates any meal. This bread serves not just as an accompaniment but as a centerpiece, drawing attention on the dinner table.
Whether served alongside a hearty soup or as a stand-alone snack, focaccia never fails to impress. Its inviting aroma fills the kitchen, promising warmth and comfort.
Why Choose Sourdough?
The fermentation process involved in creating sourdough gives this bread its distinctive flavor profile. This method enhances the natural taste of the ingredients, producing a loaf that is rich and complex.
Moreover, sourdough is easier to digest for many people compared to other types of bread. Beneficial bacteria develop during fermentation, contributing to the bread’s health benefits.
Combining this with olive oil and fresh herbs elevates the experience, making it a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.
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🛒 Shop Now on AmazonIngredients That Shine
The key ingredients for a successful focaccia include high-quality all-purpose flour, active sourdough starter, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Olive oil plays a pivotal role, not only in flavor but also in achieving that perfect crust. The coarse sea salt sprinkled on top provides a beautiful contrast to the soft, chewy interior.
Using fresh elements ensures each bite is bursting with flavor, allowing the focaccia to stand out in any culinary setting.
The Art of Preparation
Preparing sourdough focaccia involves a hands-on approach, but the process is surprisingly simple. Mix the flour, water, and sourdough starter to form a shaggy dough.
Resting the dough is critical, allowing gluten to develop naturally. After incorporating salt and olive oil, the dough undergoes bulk fermentation, during which it rises and strengthens.
This technique results in a well-structured bread that is both airy and chewy.
Baking to Perfection
The baking stage is where the magic happens. Preheating the oven ensures that the focaccia achieves that perfect golden color and crispiness.
Dimpling the surface before baking allows for oil and herbs to nestle in, enhancing flavor and texture.
Watching the bread rise and turn golden brown is a satisfying experience, making the wait worthwhile.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, this focaccia is best served warm, perhaps with a dish of olive oil for dipping. Adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary on the side not only enhances presentation but also infuses additional flavor.
It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from salads to grilled meats, or can simply be enjoyed on its own.
For a rustic touch, serving it on a wooden board adds an inviting element to your dining experience, making every occasion feel special.
The Perfect Sourdough Focaccia Bread
This sourdough focaccia bread boasts a crispy crust and a fluffy crumb, enriched with the natural tang of sourdough. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time while delivering impressive results that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 350g water, room temperature
- 100g active sourdough starter
- 10g salt
- 50g olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for topping
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, and sourdough starter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Add Salt and Oil: Sprinkle the salt over the dough and drizzle in the olive oil. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Bulk Fermentation: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours.
- Shape the Dough: Lightly oil a baking tray. Transfer the dough to the tray and gently stretch it to fill the pan. Cover and let it rise for another 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Dimple and Top: Once risen, use your fingers to create dimples across the surface of the dough. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with fresh herbs and coarse sea salt.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 6-8 hours (including fermentation)
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 10 slices
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
