Introduction
Transform humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece with this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia. This recipe elevates the simple act of bread making to an art form, resulting in a loaf so intensely flavorful and satisfying, it will redefine your expectations of homemade bread. Prepare to be captivated by its airy crumb, its irresistible garlicky perfume, and the delightful crunch of the Parmesan. This is not just bread; it’s an experience.
Why This Works
The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The robust garlic aroma intertwines beautifully with the sharp tang of Parmesan, creating a symphony on the palate. The simple yet effective technique ensures a light and airy crumb, while a generous topping of herbs provides a fragrant finish. Accessibility is key; even novice bakers can achieve exceptional results.
Key Ingredients
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍞 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 💧 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 🥄 1 teaspoon sugar
- 🌾 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌿 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🫒 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Add minced garlic, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3️⃣ Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough comes together.
4️⃣ Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5️⃣ Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6️⃣ Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a 9×13 inch baking pan.
7️⃣ Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan.
8️⃣ Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary and Parmesan cheese.
9️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
🔟 Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Handy Tips
- For an even more intense garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
- If your dough seems too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes easier to handle.
- Don’t overknead the dough, as this can result in a tough loaf.
Heat Control
Maintaining the correct oven temperature is crucial. Too low, and the focaccia will be pale and underbaked. Too high, and it will burn before the inside is cooked through. The suggested temperature of 400°F (200°C) is optimal for achieving a perfectly golden-brown crust and a tender interior. Monitor carefully during the last few minutes of baking.
Crunch Factor
The delightful crunch of this focaccia comes from the combination of the crisp crust and the slightly salty Parmesan cheese. The rosemary adds a subtle textural element, while the airy interior offers a pleasing contrast.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use pre-minced garlic.
- Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano.
Storage Tips
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually in a freezer-safe bag.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon. Alternatively, present the whole loaf in a beautiful bread basket lined with a linen napkin.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Sun-dried Tomato & Basil: Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the dough for a Mediterranean twist.
🌟 Roasted Red Pepper & Goat Cheese: Incorporate roasted red peppers and crumbled goat cheese for a sophisticated flavor combination.
🌟 Olive & Oregano: Infuse the dough with chopped Kalamata olives and oregano for a savory delight.
🌟 Spicy Jalapeño & Cheddar: Add finely chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese for a fiery kick.
Troubleshooting
- Dough is too sticky: Add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Focaccia is underbaked: Bake for a few more minutes, checking frequently.
- Focaccia is too brown: Reduce oven temperature slightly.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh yeast? Yes, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly. Follow the instructions on your yeast packaging.
- Can I make this focaccia ahead of time? You can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow for extra rising time at room temperature before baking.
- What kind of olive oil should I use? A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor, but any olive oil will work.
- Can I make this focaccia in a different shaped pan? Yes, any oven-safe pan will work. Adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly special. Share this culinary delight with friends and family, and watch as they fall in love with its irresistible charm. Enjoy the process, savor the aroma, and relish the exquisite taste of this addictive bread. Happy baking!
Indulge in Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
A deliciously fluffy focaccia bread infused with aromatic garlic and topped with savory Parmesan cheese, perfect for dipping or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (110u00b0F)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425u00b0F (220u00b0C).
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Stretch the dough to fit the sheet, creating dimples with your fingers.
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and black pepper. Brush this mixture over the dough.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dough.
- Let the dough rise again for about 20 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add Italian herbs to the garlic oil mixture.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce or balsamic vinegar for dipping.