Sourdough Focaccia Bread Recipe
This Sourdough Focaccia Bread recipe combines a tangy sourdough starter with olive oil and flour to create a soft, golden, and aromatic Italian flatbread perfect for sandwiches, dips, or as a side with your favorite meal.
- Author: Marco
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including proofing time)
- Yield: 1 focaccia bread (approximately 9x13 inches) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, lukewarm water, and all-purpose flour. Stir until a rough dough forms. Add salt and olive oil, then knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer.
- First Proof: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours, until it has noticeably expanded and is bubbly.
- Shape the Dough: Lightly oil a baking sheet or focaccia pan. Transfer the dough onto the sheet and gently stretch and press it out to fill the pan evenly.
- Second Proof: Cover the dough again and let it proof for another 1-2 hours until puffy and slightly risen.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for good crust development.
- Dimple and Drizzle: Using your fingers, gently press dimples into the dough surface. Drizzle olive oil generously over the top and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Bake: Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite accompaniments.
Notes
- Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using for best rise and flavor.
- Adjust water amount as needed to achieve a soft but not sticky dough.
- You can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking for extra flavor.
- Storing leftover focaccia in an airtight container keeps it fresh for 2-3 days.
- Reheat gently before serving to restore crispness.
Keywords: sourdough focaccia, Italian bread, sourdough bread, focaccia recipe, homemade bread, baking bread