Simple Sourdough Focaccia Recipe
Introduction
Simple sourdough focaccia is a deliciously airy and flavorful bread that showcases the tangy depth of a sourdough starter. Perfect as a snack or alongside meals, this recipe is easy to make with just a few basic ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Step 2: Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 4–6 hours, allowing it to rise and develop flavor.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Transfer the dough to a well-oiled baking pan.
- Step 4: Gently stretch and press the dough with your fingers to fill the pan, creating dimples across the surface.
- Step 5: Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top for extra aroma and flavor.
- Use coarse sea salt for a crunchier finish after baking.
- If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour on your hands when stretching.
Storage
Store focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain freshness. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought yeast instead of sourdough starter?
Yes, but the flavor will be less tangy and complex. You can substitute with 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and adjust rising times accordingly.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size and feel airy when gently pressed. This usually takes 4–6 hours at room temperature with active sourdough starter.
PrintSimple Sourdough Focaccia Recipe
A simple and delicious sourdough focaccia recipe that creates a golden, crispy crust with a soft and airy interior, perfect as a side or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Sourdough Focaccia Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Coarse sea salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, warm water, olive oil, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated and a sticky dough forms.
- Stretch the dough: Transfer the dough to a well-oiled baking pan. Using your hands, gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan evenly, creating dimples with your fingertips for texture.
- First rise: Cover the dough loosely with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 3 to 4 hours until it has puffed up noticeably.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) while the dough is resting.
- Bake until golden: Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough and sprinkle coarse sea salt on top if desired. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Cool and serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving warm.
Notes
- Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for best results.
- For extra flavor, add fresh rosemary or garlic before baking.
- The dough can be refrigerated overnight for a slower fermentation and deeper flavor.
- Use a cast iron skillet or rimmed baking sheet for best crust development.
Keywords: sourdough focaccia, easy focaccia recipe, Italian bread, sourdough bread, homemade focaccia, simple bread recipe
