Focaccia Bread with Roasted Garlic and Olives

Focaccia bread is a beloved Italian staple recognized for its rich flavors, delightful textures, and versatility. When infused with the aromatic goodness of roasted garlic and briny olives, this bread becomes the star of any meal. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, alongside a hearty soup, or within a charming picnic basket, this recipe will satisfy and impress.

Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 medium bulb of garlic
• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives (or your choice of olives)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
• Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Roasted Garlic: Begin by preheating the oven to 400°F. Slice the top off the bulb of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in aluminum foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Allow it to cool, then squeeze out the cloves into a small bowl and mash them into a smooth paste.

2. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is alive and ready to create that fluffy texture.

3. Mix the Dough: Add the flour, salt, mashed roasted garlic, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Once it starts to come together, turn it onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Prepare the Olives: While the dough is rising, chop the olives coarsely. You can choose to use a mix of olives to impart varied flavors.

6. Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a baking sheet generously drizzled with olive oil. Press and stretch the dough to fit the sheet’s dimensions.

7. Add the Olives: Sprinkle the chopped olives over the surface, gently pressing them into the dough. Use your fingers to make dimples across the top of the focaccia, which helps to hold oil and salt, adding tremendous flavor.

8. Second Rise: Cover the dough loosely with a towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

9. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Before placing the focaccia in the oven, pour a generous amount of olive oil over the top and sprinkle with sea salt and fresh rosemary if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the focaccia to cool slightly on a wire rack. Slice it into squares and serve warm.

Cooking Tips and Variations

1. Choosing the Olives: Opt for high-quality, brine-packed olives for the best flavor. Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or even green olives can provide delightful contrasts.

2. Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano. Mixing in crushed red pepper flakes can add an enticing kick.

3. Dipping Accompaniments: Serve the focaccia with flavorful olive oil infused with herbs or balsamic vinegar for dipping.

4. Storage: This focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive its crispiness.

5. Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust the water content if necessary.

This delectable focaccia bread with roasted garlic and olives is sure to become a regular in your kitchen repertoire. Its fluffy texture combined with the savory depth of roasted garlic and the savory punch of olives creates an irresistible experience. Share this recipe with friends and family; they will surely be asking for leftovers! Remember, cooking is not just about following recipes—it’s about experimenting and finding joy in the creation.

Final Thoughts

While your focaccia is baking, capture the moment with enticing food photography. Once it’s cool, snap a shot to remember how beautiful your creation is, or share it on social media to inspire others. As you savor each bite, think of different ways you can transform this recipe to suit your taste buds. Happy baking!