Elevating Comfort: The Artistry of Onion and Rosemary Herb White Focaccia

A Symphony of Aromas and Flavors

Step into the realm of artisanal baking where simplicity meets sophistication, and comfort is elevated to an art form. Today, we embark on a journey to create Onion and Rosemary Herb White Focaccia – a bread that not only graces your senses with its aromatic embrace but also invites you to savor the harmony of sweet onions, fragrant rosemary, and the rustic charm of homemade bread. Join us as we unveil the secrets to crafting this culinary masterpiece that transcends the ordinary.

Ingredients:

For the Focaccia Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Topping:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions:

Focaccia Dough Creation:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready for action.

Step 2: Flour and Salt Fusion

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

Step 3: Kneading Bliss

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 4: First Rise Triumph

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release any air bubbles. This step prepares the dough for its second rise.

Step 5: Shaping Excellence

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a baking sheet. Transfer the shaped dough to the greased baking sheet.

Onion and Rosemary Topping:

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until they become golden brown and caramelized. This step infuses a sweet and savory flavor into the focaccia.

Step 2: Herb Infusion

Sprinkle the caramelized onions evenly over the rolled-out dough. Distribute the chopped fresh rosemary on top of the onions, ensuring an even spread.

Step 3: Olive Oil Drizzle

Generously drizzle olive oil over the entire surface of the focaccia, allowing it to seep into the dough and create a golden, crispy crust during baking.

Step 4: Sea Salt Scattering

Finish by sprinkling coarse sea salt over the focaccia. The salt not only enhances the flavors but also adds a delightful crunch.

Step 5: Second Rise Elegance

Allow the prepared focaccia to undergo its second rise on the baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes. This gives the dough an opportunity to puff up and become airy.

Baking Brilliance:

Step 1: Oven Symphony

Bake the Onion and Rosemary Herb White Focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until it achieves a beautiful golden color. The aroma of caramelized onions and rosemary will fill your kitchen, creating an anticipation of the deliciousness to come.

Step 2: Cooling Grace

Once baked, let the focaccia cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the interior to set, ensuring a perfect texture.

Cook Notes:

• Dough Patience: Allowing the dough to rise adequately is crucial for a light and airy focaccia. Patience in this stage contributes to the final texture of the bread.
• Onion Caramelization: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. Low and slow cooking ensures a deep, sweet flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the rosemary and olive oil.
• Herb Freshness: Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor. Dried rosemary can be substituted, but the fresh herb imparts a vibrant and aromatic quality to the focaccia.
• Olive Oil Quality: Choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for both the dough and the drizzle. The oil not only adds flavor but also contributes to the desirable texture of the crust.

Variations:

1. Garlic Infusion:

Elevate the flavor profile by adding roasted garlic cloves to the onion and rosemary topping. Roasting the garlic imparts a mellow and sweet flavor.

2. Balsamic Reduction Elegance:

Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the focaccia just before serving for an added layer of sweetness and acidity. This variation introduces a touch of gourmet elegance.

3. Olive Medley Marvel:

Enhance the topping with a medley of olives, such as Kalamata and green olives. The briny and savory notes of olives complement the sweet caramelized onions.

4. Parmesan Parmigiana:

Grate Parmesan or Pecorino cheese over the focaccia during the last few minutes of baking. The cheese adds a savory richness that pairs wonderfully with the onions and rosemary.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Substitute almond flour or a combination of almond and coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to create a keto-friendly dough.
• Use a sugar substitute in the dough to maintain the low-carb profile.
• Monitor the caramelization of onions to avoid overcooking, as they naturally contain sugars.

Low-Carb Version:

• Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a low-carb flour alternative.
• Choose a low-carb sweetener for the sugar in the dough.
• Keep the onion and rosemary topping, adjusting the quantity of onions to suit the desired carb content.

A Culinary Masterpiece Unveiled

The Onion and Rosemary Herb White Focaccia is not just a bread; it’s a culinary masterpiece that marries simplicity with sophistication. As you slice into its golden crust and inhale the aroma of caramelized onions and fresh rosemary, you’ll witness the symphony of flavors that unfold.

Whether enjoyed as a standalone delight, as an accompaniment to soups and salads, or as the centerpiece of a festive gathering, this focaccia invites you to savor the artistry of homemade baking. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of this artisanal creation fill your kitchen. The Onion and Rosemary Herb White Focaccia promises a culinary journey that elevates comfort to new heights. Buon Appetito!