If you’re a fan of sourdough bread, you’ll love this focaccia recipe that uses an active sourdough starter to create a soft and airy bread with a tangy flavor. This classic Italian bread is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as the base for a sandwich. It’s also a great bread to serve alongside soups, stews, and salads. With this recipe, you can make the dough 2 days in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 36 hours. So, if you’re planning a Saturday night or Sunday brunch, you can prepare the dough on Friday morning and refrigerate until it’s time to bake.
The Ultimate Sourdough Focaccia
Servings
Ingredients
- 100 g active sourdough starter
- 500 g bread flour
- 410 g water
- 10 g olive oil
- 10 g salt
Instructions
- Mix the sourdough starter, flour, and 400 g of water until combined. At this point, it will feel like a wet dough.
- Let the dough sit for 20-30 minutes. After 30 minutes, add the salt, remaining water, and oil. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes (the dough will be very wet).
- Bulk rise: Let the dough rest at room temperature for 2-3 hours, performing a stretch and fold every 30-40 minutes.
- After the bulk rise, oil a 9×13 sheet pan and transfer the dough to it. Gently stretch the dough, but let it rest for 20-30 minutes if it resists.
- After an hour, oil the top of the dough and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight (10-18 hours).
- Remove from the fridge 2 hours before baking and let it come to room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F. Oil your hands and gently press down on the focaccia dough. Drizzle olive oil, herbs, and salt on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until deep brown in color.
Notes
- Rosemary and smoked salt: a classic that never goes out of style. Simply drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle smoked salt and freshly chopped rosemary on top before baking.
- Garlic and olive: another classic, this variation involves spreading minced garlic and olives on top of the dough before baking.
- Tomato and basil: for a touch of Mediterranean flavor, top your focaccia with sliced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Caramelized onion and feta cheese: this combination of sweet and salty is a crowd-pleaser. Top the dough with caramelized onions and crumbled cheese before baking.
- Roasted Grapes: for a unique twist
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