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Sourdough foccacia recipe

This Sourdough Focaccia is light, airy, and full of tangy flavor — a perfect artisan bread that’s easy to make and delicious for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Fermentation Time 13 hours
Total Time 13 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 1 cup 240g active sourdough starter
  • 2 cups 480g warm water
  • 4 cups 480g all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil plus more for coating
For the Topping:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Flaky sea salt to taste
  • Fresh rosemary or other herbs optional

Method
 

  1. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter and warm water. Add flour and salt, then mix until a sticky dough forms. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon olive oil and mix again.
  2. Rest and Stretch: Cover with a damp towel and rest for 30 minutes. Perform 3 rounds of stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes.
  3. Bulk Fermentation: Cover tightly and let rise for 4–6 hours at room temperature or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
  4. Prepare the Pan: Coat a 9x13-inch pan generously with olive oil. Transfer dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fit. Let rise for 2–3 hours until puffy.
  5. Dimple the Dough: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle with olive oil and use your fingertips to make dimples. Sprinkle salt and rosemary on top.
  6. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
  7. Cool and Serve: Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use an active, bubbly starter for best results.
  • For a chewier texture, substitute half the flour with bread flour.
  • Don’t be afraid to use plenty of olive oil — it gives that classic focaccia crust.
  • Try toppings like caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or cherry tomatoes for variety.