This simple focaccia recipe guides you through preparing a soft, flavorful dough, perfect for your homemade Italian bread. With a straightforward process and common ingredients, it’s the perfect starting point for a delicious focaccia.
In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water with the instant dry yeast and sugar. Stir gently and let it activate for about 2 minutes until it begins to bubble.
Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour and salt. Stir using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
Add the extra virgin olive oil and mix until the dough becomes wet and sticky, which should take about one minute.
Shape the dough roughly into a ball and cover the bowl with a damp cloth.
Let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven for 1½ to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
After rising, fold the dough about 40 times from the outside toward the center using a spatula or spoon, avoiding hands.
Grease a baking sheet generously with oil as focaccia tends to stick. Alternatively, you can line the sheet with parchment paper if you prefer not to use oil.