Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
The Irresistible Allure of Homemade Bread
There's something truly magical about the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Imagine returning from a long day, and as you enter, the warm, inviting aroma of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread surrounds you, instantly lifting your spirits. This delightful bread embodies comfort and satisfaction, making it perfect for a casual dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Creating this masterpiece at home isn't as daunting as it sounds! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that rivals your favorite artisanal bakery. The golden crust, infused with garlic and sprinkled with fresh parmesan, offers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, there's an undeniable joy in kneading the dough and watching it rise, knowing that each step takes you closer to a delicious reward.
If you've never tried your hand at baking focaccia, now's your chance! Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises an experience filled with easy-to-follow steps and delightful results. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones with this irresistible bread!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Focaccia
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread begins with a handful of simple yet vital ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need to craft this delightful bread.
- Flour: Use 2 cups of high-quality all-purpose flour. This forms the backbone of your focaccia, providing structure and chewiness.
- Kosher Salt: Just 1 teaspoon is essential for flavor and helps to enhance the dough’s texture.
- Water: You need 1 cup of warm water. This activates the yeast, allowing your focaccia to rise beautifully.
- Yeast: Measure 1 ⅛ teaspoons of instant yeast. It’s the magic ingredient that gives life to your dough!
- Granulated Sugar: Add ½ teaspoon to feed the yeast, ensuring a good rise.
- Olive Oil: This adds richness, enhancing both flavor and moisture.
- Garlic: Three cloves, minced, will impart that irresistible garlic flavor throughout the bread.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use ⅔ cup of freshly grated cheese for a savory finish.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 ½ teaspoons to bring a touch of herbaceousness.
- Maldon Flaked Sea Salt: This finishing touch adds a delightful crunch and elevates every bite.
With these essentials, you’re well on your way to enjoying warm, homemade Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread that will impress any guest!
Step-by-step preparation of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread at home is not just a culinary experience; it’s also a wonderful way to engage your senses and impress your friends. This simple bread is aromatic, delicious, and the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Let’s go through each step to help you master this recipe!
Gather and mix your dry ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients to set the stage for your focaccia masterpiece. You’ll need:
- 2 cups of flour (bread or all-purpose works well)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
In a medium glass bowl, whisk these together until they’re well combined. This step is crucial for even seasoning throughout your bread!
Activate the yeast
Let’s get that yeast going! In a glass measuring cup, take 1 cup of warm water (ideally between 100-110°F), and add 1 ⅛ teaspoons of instant yeast along with ½ teaspoon of granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about a minute. If you see some bubbling and foaming, congratulations! Your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to work its magic.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients
Next, it's time to bring those ingredients together. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix using a wooden spoon or spatula just until everything comes together into a sticky dough. Avoid over-mixing; a little rough is okay!
Allow the dough to rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 8 hours or overnight. This slow rise enriches the flavor and texture of the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.
Preheat and prepare for baking
Once the dough has rested, it’s time to get back to baking. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan with olive oil. Gently remove the dough from the fridge and place it in the center of the pan, tucking the ends under gently.
Add toppings and final touches
Now for the fun part! Cover the dough again with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours. After it has risen, drizzle more olive oil over the surface, then use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. In a small bowl, mix together 3 minced garlic cloves, ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 ½ teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top, followed by a sprinkle of Maldon flaked sea salt.
Bake to golden perfection
Carefully place your focaccia in the preheated oven, and reduce the temperature to 425°F. Bake for about 22-24 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and your kitchen is filled with irresistible aromas. Let your masterpiece cool slightly before slicing it up. Enjoy your homemade Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, and watch it disappear at the dinner table!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Experimenting with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread opens up a world of delicious possibilities! Here are two fantastic variations you can try.
Herb-infused focaccia
Elevate the classic recipe by infusing your focaccia with fresh herbs. Consider adding chopped rosemary, thyme, or even basil to the dough. These aromatic herbs will not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant touch to your bread. Try substituting Italian seasoning with your favorite herb blend to create a custom flavor profile that suits your palate.
Roasted vegetable focaccia
For a heartier version, incorporate colorful roasted vegetables into your focaccia. Think red peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes! Simply roast them beforehand and mix them into the dough or scatter them on top before baking. This variation not only boosts nutrition but also adds delightful textures and flavors that make every bite irresistible. Don't forget to pair it with a side of dipping oil for an extra treat!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Ensuring the Perfect Texture
To achieve that sought-after focaccia texture, it's crucial to let the dough rest overnight in the fridge. This cold fermentation enhances flavor and gives it a delightful chewiness. Also, when pressing holes into the dough, be gentle! You want those dimples for capturing the olive oil, but don’t press all the way through.
Key Points for Flavor Enhancement
Maximize the flavor of your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread by using fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese. Don't skimp on the olive oil, as it not only adds richness but also promotes a golden, crispy crust. You can even sprinkle in some fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for an aromatic twist. Want to be adventurous? Try serving it with a balsamic reduction or a flavorful dipping oil for an irresistible appetizer!
For quality ingredients, check out King Arthur Flour and Olive Oil Source.
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Pairing with dips and spreads
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread isn't just delightful on its own; it pairs perfectly with various dips and spreads. Try serving it alongside a rich balsamic reduction, a creamy spinach-artichoke dip, or a simple herbed olive oil for dipping. You might also enjoy it with roasted garlic butter or a velvety hummus, making it an ideal snack for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Perfect accompaniments for meals
This focaccia makes a wonderful side dish for many meals, buoying up the flavors. Serve it with hearty soups like minestrone or tomato basil for a rustic touch. It’s also a fantastic addition to a fresh salad, such as a Caesar or Caprese salad. If you’re whipping up a culinary feast, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or sautéed vegetables to round out your table. With such versatility, your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread will steal the show!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Preparation Time
Your adventure begins with 15 minutes of preparation. Mixing the ingredients and getting everything ready is a breeze!
Rising Time
Patience is key here! The dough needs 2 hours to rise after you’ve shaped it. If you want to prep in advance, consider refrigerating for up to 8 hours or overnight for extra flavor.
Baking Time
Once risen, the baking takes 22-24 minutes at 425°F. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be hard to resist.
Total Time
Overall, you're looking at approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes from start to finish, not including the optional overnight refrigeration. Your taste buds will thank you!
By following this timeline, you’ll have perfect Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread ready to enjoy with friends or as a delicious centerpiece for your dinner table. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s bake!
Nutritional facts for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Calories per slice
Each slice of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread contains approximately 124 calories. This makes it a delightful treat for any occasion without completely derailing your diet.
Protein content
With 6 grams of protein per slice, this focaccia not only satisfies cravings but also contributes to your daily protein intake, making it great for a post-workout snack or a light meal option.
Sodium and other key nutrients
A slice offers 342 mg of sodium, which is essential for maintaining fluid balance, but be mindful if you're watching your salt intake. Other key nutrients include 1 gram of fiber, and it provides a boost of calcium at 89 mg—perfect for keeping those bones strong! Check out more on the benefits of garlic for health in sources like Healthline.
Enjoy this flavorful focaccia not just as a side but as a nutritious addition to your meals!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
What if my bread doesn't rise?
If your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread isn't rising, several factors may be at play. First, ensure your yeast is fresh and active; it should foam when mixed with warm water (around 110°F). If it doesn’t, your yeast might be past its prime. Additionally, make sure your dough is in a warm, draft-free place while it rises. If the environment is too cold, the yeast could become sluggish.
Can I freeze focaccia bread?
Absolutely! This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread freezes beautifully. Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable freezer bag. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
What's the best way to store leftover focaccia?
To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay good for about 4-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it as mentioned earlier. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a must-try recipe that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven with olive oil or enjoy it as a sandwich base, this bread will surely impress your family and friends. Grab your ingredients and start baking today!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Equipment
- Glass bowl
- measuring cup
- wooden spoon
- 8-inch round cake pan
- oven
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups Flour Bread or all-purpose
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 ⅛ Yeast instant
- ½ teaspoon Granulated Sugar
- 1 ½ Italian seasoning dry
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Water warm
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- ⅔ cup Parmesan Cheese fresh, grated
- Olive Oil for drizzling
Topping
- Maldon Flaked Sea Salt
Instructions
Preparation
- In a glass bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix to combine.
- In a glass measuring cup, mix the warm water, yeast and sugar. Allow to sit for a minute and stir into the flour with a wooden spoon until the dough just comes together.
- Cover the bowl with tight plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 8 hours or up to overnight.
- Remove the bowl from the fridge.
- In an 8-inch round cake pan, drizzle oil and place the dough in the center, tucking ends under.
- Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise 2 hours.
- Heat the oven to 450ºF.
- Once risen the dough should fill the pan. Drizzle with additional oil and use your fingers to press holes down to the bottom of the pan but not through the dough.
- Mix garlic, cheese and herbs in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic, cheese and herb mixture and salt.
- Place in the oven and turn down to 425ºF and bake 22-24 minutes or until golden.
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