This onion and herb focaccia bread is a delightful, aromatic bread that pairs perfectly with soups or salads. The combination of caramelized onions and fresh herbs creates a savory flavor that enhances any meal.
The recipe is simple and requires basic baking techniques. You can customize it by adding different toppings or herbs to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Focaccia
Focaccia is a beloved Italian bread known for its airy texture and delightful flavor. The process of making focaccia is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
To start, a mixture of warm water, yeast, and sugar is combined, allowing the yeast to activate. This step is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the bread’s rise. Once the yeast is frothy, it is mixed with flour and salt to form a dough that is both soft and pliable.
Kneading the dough is an important step that develops gluten, giving the bread its characteristic chewiness. After kneading, the dough is left to rise until it doubles in size, which typically takes about an hour.
Caramelizing Onions for Flavor
The star of this focaccia is undoubtedly the caramelized onions. Cooking the onions slowly in olive oil brings out their natural sweetness and adds a rich depth of flavor to the bread.
In a skillet, the onions are sautéed until they turn golden brown, which usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. This step not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful color and texture to the focaccia.
Shaping and Topping the Dough
Once the dough has risen, it is time to shape it. The dough is transferred to a greased baking sheet and gently stretched into a rectangle.
Using fingers, dimples are pressed into the surface of the dough, creating small pockets that will hold olive oil and toppings. The caramelized onions are then spread evenly over the surface, followed by a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Baking to Perfection
With the oven preheated, the focaccia is ready to bake. The high temperature ensures that the bread develops a golden crust while remaining fluffy on the inside.
Baking for about 20 to 25 minutes results in a beautifully browned focaccia that is aromatic and inviting. Once out of the oven, it’s essential to let the bread cool slightly before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This focaccia pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It can be served alongside soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil for dipping.
For a rustic presentation, serve the focaccia on a wooden board with a small bowl of olive oil and fresh herbs. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites guests to enjoy the bread in a casual, communal manner.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If there are any leftovers, storing focaccia is simple. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Reheating in the oven can restore its original texture, making it just as delightful the next day. Enjoying focaccia fresh from the oven or as part of a meal brings warmth and comfort to any dining experience.
Savory Onion and Herb Focaccia Recipe
This focaccia features a soft, fluffy texture topped with sweet caramelized onions and fragrant herbs. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish, including rising time, and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Shape the Focaccia: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Stretch and press the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
- Add Toppings: Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the top, sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, and coarse sea salt. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 26g