Easy No-Knead Garlic Focaccia Bread

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

260g bread flour
200g water
15g olive oil
4g salt
2g yeast
For Garlic Topping:

70g garlic, minced
20g olive oil
1g salt
Pepper to taste

Directions:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, water, olive oil, salt, and yeast until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight for low-temperature aging.

Prepare the Garlic Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to its highest setting (around 250°C or 482°F). Oven preheating is essential for a crispy focaccia.

Shape the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and transfer it to a well-oiled baking sheet. Using your fingers, gently press and stretch the dough to your desired thickness. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the top and bottom of the dough, ensuring it is well-coated.

Add the Topping: Spread the garlic mixture evenly over the top of the dough.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Baking time may vary depending on your oven.

Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Enjoy your ultra bubbly garlic focaccia bread warm.

TIPS AND TRICKS

Low-Temperature Aging: Allowing the dough to rest overnight in the refrigerator enhances the flavor and texture of the focaccia. This slow fermentation process develops a deeper taste.

Olive Oil Generosity: Be generous with the olive oil on both the top and bottom of the dough. This not only prevents sticking but also contributes to the crispy texture of the crust.

Baking Time: Keep an eye on the focaccia while it bakes. Depending on your oven, the baking time might vary. You want a golden brown and crispy crust.

Garlic Preparation: Mince the garlic finely to ensure it spreads evenly across the dough. This ensures every bite is packed with garlic flavor.

Srving Suggestions: Serve the focaccia warm, straight from the oven, for the best taste. Pair it with a simple salad, a bowl of soup, or use it as a base for your favorite toppings.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to regain its crispiness.

Herb Variations: Experiment with adding fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough or topping for extra flavor.

Thickness Preference: If you prefer a thinner focaccia, press the dough out more before baking. A thicker dough will result in a softer, more bread-like texture.

Salt Levels: Adjust the amount of salt in the dough and topping to suit your taste. Remember, the olive oil and garlic will also add to the flavor.

Alternative Flours: While bread flour is recommended for its gluten content, you can experiment with all-purpose flour or a blend of flours for different textures.