Description
This Crispy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread features a soft and fluffy interior with crunchy edges, infused with bold fresh garlic, aromatic herbs, and savory plant-based Parmesan. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a delightful texture and flavor that makes a perfect savory snack or side dish, customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes
Topping Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (natural)
- 3 garlic cloves (fresh), minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup plant-based Parmesan, grated
- Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Combine warm water, apple cider vinegar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Make Your Dough: In a separate large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and sea salt flakes. Pour in the yeast mixture along with two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir until a sticky dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough back in the bowl, cover loosely with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size, allowing flavor and lightness to develop.
- Shape and Add Toppings: Transfer risen dough onto a well-oiled baking sheet and gently press to a roughly 9×13 inch rectangle. Dimple the surface evenly with fingertips to create focaccia pockets. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (natural) over the top, then sprinkle minced fresh garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and grated plant-based Parmesan evenly.
- Final Rise and Bake: Let the dough rest another 20 to 30 minutes to puff slightly. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese topping is melted and crisp.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle sea salt flakes for crunch, and drizzle a bit more olive oil for extra flavor and shine. Let the focaccia rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use warm water that is not too hot to effectively activate the yeast without killing it.
- Dimpling the dough creates texture pockets which trap oil and herbs, enhancing flavor.
- Fresh rosemary and thyme give a more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Generously drizzling quality extra virgin olive oil keeps the crust crispy and rich.
- Carefully watch the focaccia in the last 5 minutes of baking to avoid burning and keep a crisp crust.
- Use finely grated plant-based Parmesan for melting and even topping coverage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: garlic focaccia, plant-based parmesan bread, crispy focaccia, herb bread, vegetarian focaccia