Name: Delicious Sourdough Focaccia: Your Easy Homemade Adventure
Prep time: 480 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 885 min
Ingredients: 100 g Sourdough Starter (Essential for natural leavening.); 512 g All-Purpose Bread Flour (Main structural component.); 440 g Water (Adjust based on humidity.); 10 g Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor; can use sea salt.); 30 ml Olive Oil (Adds richness and crispness.); Fresh Herbs (e.g., Rosemary) (Optional for flavor.); Olives or Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Optional for a gourmet twist.); Sea Salt Flakes (For finishing touches.)

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It was one of those days where the kitchen called to me, beckoning with the comforting promise of homemade bread. I could almost taste the warm, airy goodness of Simple Sourdough Focaccia, a delightful project perfect for anyone new to sourdough baking. With its golden crust and soft, chewy interior, this focaccia isn’t just easy to whip up, but it’s also incredibly versatile—great as a base for sandwiches or served alongside your favorite dipping oil. What’s more, it brings a wonderful artisan touch to your meals without hours of fuss! So, are you ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread? Let’s get started!

Why is Sourdough Focaccia a Game Changer?

Artisanal at Home: Create the essence of great Italian bakeries right in your kitchen with this simple recipe. Beginner-Friendly: Tailored for those new to sourdough, it demystifies the baking process, making it accessible. Versatile Delight: Perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or enjoyed on its own—focaccia fits any occasion. Flavor Boost: The addition of olive oil and your choice of herbs can elevate the taste to a gourmet level. Time-Saving Pleasure: Minimal hands-on time means you can enjoy fresh bread without spending hours in the kitchen. Dive into your culinary adventure with this easy homemade recipe that guarantees satisfaction!

Sourdough Focaccia Ingredients

For the Dough
• Sourdough Starter – Essential for natural leavening, providing that distinctive sour flavor. Can be homemade or purchased from trusted brands like Breadtopia.
• All-Purpose Bread Flour – The main structural component, contributing fiber and chewiness; whole wheat flour offers a heartier alternative.
• Water – Hydrating the dough is crucial; start with 430g if you’re in a humid environment to ensure the right consistency.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; feel free to substitute with sea salt, but remember to reduce the amount slightly.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and creates a beautiful crisp crust; opting for extra virgin olive oil will intensify the flavor.

For Topping (Optional)
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., Rosemary) – Sprinkle on top before baking to infuse delightful aromatic flavors.
• Olives or Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Toss them into the dough for a gourmet twist that elevates the focaccia experience.
• Sea Salt Flakes – A finishing touch to add texture and visual appeal before baking.

This beginner-friendly sourdough focaccia is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experience the joy of homemade baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Sourdough Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare Your Sourdough Starter
If you’re using a fresh sourdough starter, feed 100g with equal parts water and flour, and let it rise until bubbly—this can take about 4 to 6 hours in warm weather or up to 18 hours when it’s cooler. You want the starter to be active and frothy, ready to bring your sourdough focaccia to life.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 100g of your bubbly sourdough starter, 10g of kosher salt, and 440g of water. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined, then slowly add in 512g of all-purpose bread flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms, showing you’ve captured the magic of sourdough.

Step 3: First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and set it aside at room temperature for approximately 8 to 18 hours. You’ll know the dough is ready when it has nearly doubled in size, showcasing a beautiful, airy structure that signals a successful first rise for your sourdough focaccia.

Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
After your dough has risen, drizzle it with olive oil and gently deflate it using your hands. Carefully transfer the dough to a buttered Pyrex bowl, ensuring it gets a good coating of oil to prevent sticking. Cover it again and let it rest for an additional 5 to 6 hours, allowing it to puff up beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C), creating a warm environment for your sourdough focaccia. Once the oven is hot, use your fingers to dimple the surface of the dough, creating small wells. Drizzle with more olive oil and sprinkle with salt, enhancing that decadent crust you’re about to create.

Step 6: Bake
Place the prepared focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Keep an eye on your wonderful creation—this is when that lovely aroma will fill your kitchen, urging you to dive into your homemade sourdough focaccia.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove your sourdough focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack. After about 10 to 15 minutes, slice it into pieces and serve warm, allowing its irresistible crust and soft interior to shine as the perfect companion for your meals or snacks.

Sourdough Focaccia Variations & Substitutions

Customize your sourdough focaccia and delight in every bite with these exciting twists that add a personal touch and flavor!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking for an aromatic finish. These earthy flavors help elevate your focaccia to gourmet status.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate grated parmesan or mozzarella into the dough for a savory treat. The melted cheese creates a deliciously rich experience that pairs wonderfully with soups or salads.
Olive Medley: Toss in chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair. These ingredients meld beautifully into the dough and add a burst of flavor to every slice.
Whole Wheat: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, nuttier taste. Not only will this enhance the texture, but it will also boost the nutritional content.
Sweet Twist: Add a tablespoon of honey or sugar for a subtly sweet focaccia. This is perfect for pairing with butter or as a side to sweet jams and preserves.
Garlic Infused: Mix minced garlic or garlic powder into the dough or brush garlic-infused olive oil on top before baking. This will transform your focaccia into a fragrant treat that’s fantastic with soups.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle on top for a flavorful heat. This variation gives your focaccia an unexpected, tantalizing zing!
Seed Topping: Before baking, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for added crunch. This simple layer not only enhances the texture but also provides a delightful visual appeal.

Feel free to explore these variations or even create your own by incorporating seasonal ingredients! If you’re looking for more breading techniques or ideas, don’t hesitate to check out our other recipes tailored for home baking adventures.

What to Serve with Simple Sourdough Focaccia

Warm, fresh focaccia is not just a treat on its own; it’s the perfect accompaniment to elevate your meals and make them memorable.

Savory Olive Oil Dip: Drizzling extra virgin olive oil infused with herbs creates a flavorful dip that enhances the focaccia’s texture and taste. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Classic Bruschetta Topping: Combine diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic for a zesty topping that pairs perfectly with the light, airy crumb of the focaccia. Each bite bursts with freshness!
Crisp Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and parmesan cheese complements the soft, chewy focaccia, making for a delightful contrast of textures.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Colorful roasted peppers, zucchini, and eggplant offer a flavorful side that harmonizes with the focaccia, and those lovely caramelized flavors are simply irresistible.
Cheese Board: A mix of soft cheeses like brie and sharp cheddars will elevate the simplicity of the focaccia into an elegant cheese board experience. It’s perfect for gatherings and pairing with a glass of wine.
Simple Soup: Serve alongside a hearty tomato basil or minestrone soup to create a comforting meal. The focaccia is ideal for dipping and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Homemade Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of lemonade; its bright acidity will complement the richness of the focaccia beautifully.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, serve with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. The contrast between savory and sweet will leave everyone satisfied!

Expert Tips for Sourdough Focaccia

Monitor Rise Times: Keep a close eye on your dough during the first rise; over-proofing can lead to a flat focaccia. Optimal rising time is key for perfect tanginess.
Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially with flour and water, to ensure the right consistency for your sourdough focaccia.
Float Test: Check your dough’s readiness by performing a float test—if it floats in water, it’s ready to shape. This simple technique takes the guesswork out!
Dimple with Care: When dimpling the dough, avoid pressing too hard. Gentle dimples allow for better oven spring and a lovely texture in your finished focaccia.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding herbs or toppings of your choice; just remember to balance flavors to enhance your sourdough focaccia effectively.

Make Ahead Options

These Simple Sourdough Focaccia are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to complete its first rise right in the refrigerator. Simply mix your ingredients, cover the bowl tightly, and refrigerate; this slow rise enhances the flavor too. Additionally, after shaping, you can refrigerate the dough for an extra 5-6 hours if needed before baking. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature and dimple it as per usual before popping it into your preheated oven. This way, your focaccia will be just as delicious, saving you precious time without sacrificing quality!

Storage Tips for Sourdough Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store your focaccia at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful texture.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the focaccia for up to a week, but be mindful that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your focaccia at its best, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warm and crispy—perfect for rejuvenating that fresh-baked flavor!

Sourdough Focaccia Recipe FAQs

How do I choose a ripe sourdough starter?
Absolutely! A ripe sourdough starter should be bubbly and have doubled in size after being fed. If it’s been at least 4-6 hours in warm weather (or up to 18 hours in cooler conditions), and smells pleasantly sour, it’s ready to use for your focaccia.

What’s the best way to store Sourdough Focaccia?
Store your focaccia at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or a freezer bag, placing it in the freezer where it can last for up to 3 months. This preserves its freshness and texture!

Can I freeze Sourdough Focaccia? How?
Yes, you can freeze your sourdough focaccia! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or a freezer bag. Label it with the date, and it will be good for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to refresh its crispy crust!

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very good question! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to an inactive starter. Make sure your starter is bubbly and frothy before using it. If your dough is over-proofed, don’t worry! It might still rise in the oven, so bake it as usual. If it’s under-proofed, allow it a bit more rising time before baking, watching closely for that airy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Indeed, it’s important to consider dietary needs! This recipe is vegetarian and can be adjusted for vegan diets by using oil instead of butter if you wish to grease the bowl. Always check ingredients for gluten sensitivity; traditional sourdough focaccia contains gluten unless you substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, be cautious of any toppings you choose!