Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia
Roasted garlic and herb focaccia is a delightful twist on the classic Italian bread, offering a warm, aromatic experience that’s hard to resist. This vegan version swaps out traditional dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice without compromise. The process of roasting garlic transforms its pungent bite into a sweet, mellow flavor that permeates the dough, while fresh herbs add a vibrant touch.
Focaccia has a rich history, dating back to ancient Rome, where it was often used as a base for toppings or served alongside meals. This bread is known for its characteristic dimpled surface, which not only looks appealing but also holds onto olive oil and seasonings beautifully. As you prepare this focaccia, you’ll find that the dough is forgiving and fun to work with, making it a perfect project for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
To make this focaccia truly special, consider experimenting with different herbs or even adding toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes. The beauty of focaccia lies in its versatility; it can be enjoyed as a side dish, a sandwich base, or simply dipped in your favorite olive oil. And remember, if anyone asks why you’re making bread from scratch, just tell them it’s a knead-to-know basis!
As you pull this golden-brown focaccia from the oven, the aroma of roasted garlic and herbs will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Serve it warm, and watch as it disappears faster than you can say ‘buon appetito!’ This focaccia is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to share and savor the simple pleasures of life, one slice at a time.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 cups olive oil
- 1 head roasted garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and airy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 cups of warm water (about 110°F) with 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1.5 teaspoons of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring all flour is incorporated.
- Drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic; this helps develop the gluten for a better texture.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- While the dough is rising, roast your garlic. Cut the top off a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in the oven for about 30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Transfer it to a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, stretching it to fit the pan. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and spread them evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons each of chopped fresh rosemary and thyme, and finish with 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top to enhance flavor and moisture. Let the dough rest for another 20 minutes to allow it to puff up slightly.
- Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps set the texture.
- Transfer the focaccia to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For an extra touch, serve with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It’s a delightful way to enjoy this flavorful bread!
- Enjoy your homemade focaccia with friends or family. Just remember, sharing is caring, especially when it comes to delicious bread!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbs g: 34
- Protein g: 4
- Fat g: 4
- Sugar g: 1
