Tomato and Basil Focaccia |
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-Makes 1 large loaf
Crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside—this authentic Italian Tomato & Basil Focaccia is a classic Ligurian-style bread that brings together fragrant olive oil, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or for making sandwiches, this slow-fermented focaccia develops deep flavor with an overnight rise, resulting in a light and chewy crumb. Follow this step-by-step traditional focaccia recipe to achieve bakery-quality results at home!
Check out our Sourdough Focaccia recipe here.
Check out our Sourdough Focaccia recipe here.
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Ingredients for Focaccia350g warm water
1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast 25g extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for greasing 500 g strong white flour (bread flour) 10g fine sea-salt Topping: 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary, leaves only, tossed in a tablespoon olive oil 12-14 tomatoes on the vine, halved 25-30 Italian basil leaves Flaky sea-salt, for sprinkling Freshly ground black pepper, for sprinkling Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling Equipment: 9x13 inch pan Spray bottle, for steaming |
Tomato and Basil Focaccia Recipe Video
Recipe |
1. Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy. In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), add the flour, and yeast mixture. Stir to form a shaggy dough. Lightly flour your work surface and transfer the dough onto it. Sprinkle the salt over the dough (adding salt later helps gluten development). Knead for 8-10 minutes by hand (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic. Add olive oil and knead for a few more minutes. Cover and set aside for 30 minutes.
2. Perform 2-3 stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes to improve texture and develop gluten. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (12-24 hours) for deeper flavor. (the overnight method yields the best focaccia!) If using on the same day, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size. If using overnight dough, bring it to room temperature (about 1 hour on the counter) before proceeding. 3. Generously oil a 9x13-inch baking tray (2-3 tbsp olive oil). Using a spatula or dough scraper, gently release the dough from the bowl and transfer it onto the tray, seam side down. With oily hands, gently stretch the dough to fill the tray (don’t force it; let it relax for 10 minutes if needed). Cover loosely and let it proof for 45-60 minutes until puffy and bubbly. 4. Preheat your oven to 220°C convection setting (428°F). Drizzle about 2 tablespoons olive oil all over focaccia. Using three fingers (index, middle, and ring fingers), press deep dimples all over the dough. Place a basil leaf in each dimple, then gently press a halved cherry tomato on top of each leaf. Sprinkle with oiled rosemary/thyme leaves, flaky sea salt, and black pepper. 5. Place the tray in the oven and spray the focaccia with water mist (or add a few ice cubes to the tray for steam). Bake the focaccia on the middle rack for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for extra flavor. Let it cool slightly, then slice into squares and serve warm. ✨ Pro Tips for Authentic Focaccia ✔ Use cold fermentation (overnight rise) for the best flavor and texture. ✔ Don’t skimp on olive oil – it gives focaccia its signature crispiness. ✔ Dimple deeply to prevent puffing up unevenly. ✔ Use high-quality flour for a better gluten structure and chew. ✔ Fresh basil & tomatoes release juices—press them gently so they don’t sink in too much. 🍕 Best Focaccia Toppings Want to take your homemade focaccia to the next level? Try these delicious topping combinations for extra flavor and texture! Classic & Savory Toppings • Sea salt & rosemary – The traditional Ligurian-style focaccia • Garlic & olive oil – Simple yet incredibly flavorful • Caramelized onions & thyme – Sweet and aromatic • Olives & oregano – A must-try for olive lovers • Prosciutto & arugula – Add after baking for a gourmet touch Unique & Sweet-Savory Toppings • Gorgonzola & walnuts – Rich, creamy, and nutty • Figs & honey – A sweet-savory twist that pairs beautifully with focaccia |
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