Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a simple yet delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia? This easy recipe involves just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. With its rich garlic flavor and cheesy finish, your kitchen will smell amazing while this bread bakes. Let’s dive in and create a perfect focaccia that everyone will love!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
– 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh rosemary, chopped (for garnish)
– Sea salt (for sprinkling)
Gather your ingredients first. This helps the process go smoothly. Start with the flour and yeast. Instant yeast works well and needs no proofing. Just mix it with sugar and warm water. The warm water helps activate the yeast quickly.
Next, add the flour and salt. The salt adds flavor and controls the yeast. You want a shaggy dough. It should not be too sticky or dry. If it is, adjust with more water or flour.
Don’t forget the olive oil! It adds richness and flavor. Use some in the dough and save some for drizzling later. Minced garlic is a must. Fresh garlic gives a strong, tasty punch. The Parmesan cheese melts beautifully on top, adding a rich, savory note.
Finally, fresh rosemary gives a lovely smell. It also adds a pop of color. Sea salt on top makes every bite special. Enjoy the process of gathering and prepping these simple, fresh ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes. You will see it get frothy.
2. Add 2 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt into the yeast mixture. Stir it until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer this dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes. It should feel smooth and elastic.
Rising the Dough
1. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel.
2. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. It should double in size.
Preparing to Bake
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even baking.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Then, transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
3. Using your fingers, stretch the dough into a rectangle or circle. Aim for about 1-inch thick.
4. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with a drizzle of olive oil. Brush this garlic oil over the dough.
5. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Add fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
Baking the Focaccia
1. Allow the dough to rest for an extra 20 minutes while the oven heats up.
2. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color.
3. Once baked, remove it from the oven. Drizzle with olive oil for added taste. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
– Use freshly minced garlic for stronger flavor. Fresh garlic gives a bold taste that dried garlic cannot match. The aroma fills your kitchen and makes your focaccia unforgettable.
– Experiment with additional toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes. These add unique flavors and textures. You can mix and match to find your favorite combination.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
– Rest the dough adequately for better rise. This step is key. Letting the dough sit helps it become light and fluffy.
– Adjust baking time for desired crispness. Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your focaccia to achieve the golden crust you want.
Presentation Advice
– Serve warm with herbs for garnish. A sprinkle of fresh rosemary makes the focaccia look and taste great.
– Cut it into squares for easier serving. This way, everyone can enjoy a piece without hassle. Plus, it looks neat on the plate.
Variations
Herb-infused Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
You can make your focaccia even more special. Add mixed Italian herbs into the dough. This gives a nice flavor boost. You can also swap out the rosemary for oregano or thyme. Each herb adds its own unique taste.
Cheesy Garlic Focaccia
If you love cheese, try this twist. Incorporate other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar into the dough. You can also sprinkle cheese on top. This makes it extra cheesy and delicious. The gooey texture will wow your guests.
Gluten-Free Option
Want a gluten-free version? Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the ingredients. You might need to adjust the liquid amount too. Add a little more or less water to get the right dough texture. This way, everyone can enjoy your focaccia!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Focaccia
To keep your leftover focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the bread soft and tasty. If you leave it out, it can get hard and dry. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently before serving.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, slice the focaccia first. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap tightly. This helps to keep the bread fresh in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, you can either thaw it at room temperature or reheat it directly from the freezer. It’s quick and easy!
Best Way to Reheat
The best way to reheat your focaccia is in the oven. This method gives it a crispy texture that feels fresh-baked. Just preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave for a quick warm-up. However, this may not give you the same crispy results as the oven.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia?
It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia. This time includes prep, rise, and bake. Here’s the breakdown:
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Rise Time: 1 hour
– Bake Time: 20 to 25 minutes
You can enjoy fresh focaccia in no time!
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs if you don’t have fresh ones. When using dried herbs, use less. Dried herbs are stronger in flavor. A good rule is to use one-third of the amount. So, if a recipe calls for one tablespoon of fresh rosemary, use one teaspoon of dried.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia?
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia tastes great with many dips and sides. Here are some ideas:
– Olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping
– Hummus for a creamy touch
– Tomato soup for a cozy meal
– Fresh salad for a light side
These pairings make the focaccia even better!
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for new bakers. Here are some tips to help you:
– Follow each step carefully for the best results.
– Don’t rush the rise; let the dough double in size.
– Use your fingers to shape the dough; it’s fun and easy.
With practice, you’ll soon bake like a pro!
Making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is easy and fun. We explored key ingredients like flour and yeast. I shared simple steps to make the dough rise and bake it until golden. You can customize it with herbs or other cheeses. Proper storage and reheating tips keep your focaccia fresh.
This recipe is great for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With just a few simple steps, you will enjoy delicious bread that impresses. Make this tasty focaccia your next baking project!
