Best Sourdough Focaccia

Best Sourdough Focaccia is a delightfully airy and flavorful bread that’s filled and topped with a beautiful combination of olive oil, herbs, and sea salt.

It’s not heavy or overly dense either. I think it’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a standalone snack, and if you’re not a fan of certain herbs, feel free to omit them. It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a light & airy bread that’s not overly complex, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a light and fluffy sourdough focaccia and pair it with a fragrant blend of olive oil and herbs, you get the perfect bread. The addition of toppings just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for rustic, homemade bread, and this focaccia reminds me of the simplicity and beauty of traditional baking. Not a fan of certain toppings? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without them.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough scraper
• Clean kitchen towel
• Baking sheet or focaccia pan
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Ingredients

• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc.)
• Flaky sea salt for topping

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and warm water. Mix until the starter is fully dissolved.
2. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the flour and sea salt to the mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough scraper until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare the Pan:
   • Line a baking sheet or focaccia pan with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Shape the Dough:
   • Turn the risen dough out onto the prepared pan. Using your fingers, gently press the dough out to fit the pan. Create dimples in the dough with your fingertips.
7. Second Rise:
   • Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 2 hours.
8. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
9. Add Toppings:
   • Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs and flaky sea salt.
10. Bake the Focaccia:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
11. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the focaccia to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
12. Enjoy:
    • Enjoy this airy and flavorful sourdough focaccia as a perfect complement to your meal or a delicious snack on its own.

Best Sourdough Focaccia is the ideal way to enjoy a rustic, homemade bread with minimal effort. Enjoy its light, airy texture and rich, savory flavor anytime you crave a comforting and delicious bread!