FAQ About Focaccia Bread

Yes, you can make Focaccia without yeast by using alternative leavening agents. While yeast is the traditional leavening agent for Focaccia, there are two common yeast-free methods you can use: baking powder or a sourdough starter. Here are instructions for both:

Yeast-Free Focaccia with Baking Powder:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a baking pan or baking sheet.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour the warm water and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. Shape: Transfer the dough to the greased pan or sheet. Use your fingertips to press and stretch it into the desired shape, typically a rectangle or circle.
5. Toppings: Add your preferred Focaccia toppings, such as olive oil, coarse salt, and fresh herbs. You can also add toppings like sliced tomatoes, olives, or onions.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the Focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the yeast-free Focaccia to cool slightly before slicing and serving. It's delicious when served warm or at room temperature.

Yeast-Free Sourdough Focaccia:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sourdough starter (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup warm water (if needed for hydration)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Toppings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a baking pan or baking sheet.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sourdough starter, and olive oil. If the dough seems dry, you can add a small amount of warm water to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Knead: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
4. Shape: Transfer the dough to the greased pan or sheet. Use your fingertips to press and stretch it into the desired shape.
5. Toppings: Add your choice of Focaccia toppings, such as olive oil, salt, herbs, or other ingredients.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the Focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the yeast-free sourdough Focaccia to cool slightly before slicing and serving.