Name: Delicious Homemade Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves; Sea salt, to taste

Learn how to make fluffy and flavorful focaccia bread from scratch with this simple and foolproof recipe. This Italian staple is perfect for serving as an appetizer, table bread, or even as a base for sandwiches. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy the fresh aroma and taste of homemade focaccia in no time. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake your way to bread heaven.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups warm water
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
Sea salt, to taste

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
Add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet or a baking dish.
Using your fingers, press dimples into the dough, creating small wells all over the surface.
Drizzle the dough with olive oil and sprinkle it with fresh rosemary leaves. Season with sea salt according to taste.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown.
Remove the focaccia bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts

Focaccia bread originated in ancient Rome and was often given as an offering to the gods during special occasions.

Traditionally, focaccia is topped with only olive oil and salt, but you can get creative and add your favorite ingredients such as tomatoes, olives, or cheese.

The word 'focaccia' comes from the Latin word 'focus,' which means hearth or fireplace, as the bread was originally cooked in the ashes of the fireplace.