Garden Art Focaccia Bread — a Trend That’s Here to Stay

Step 1

Pour the yeast into the warm water and let stand to dissolve for 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in the sugar and two tablespoons of the oil.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flours and salt. Work the yeast mixture in using your hands, then turn out onto a well-floured board. Knead for 5 minutes, adding additional flour until the dough loses its stickiness.

Step 3

Place the ball of dough in a floured bowl. Cover with a tea towel and let it rise for about an hour in a warm place (I like to turn the oven on at 350º F, then turn it off within a minute).

Step 4

Punch the dough down, then turn it out onto a well-floured board. Roll out into a rectangle-ish shape about 12 to 13 inches on the longer side. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 400º F.

Step 6

When the dough has finished rising, poke very shallow holes into its surface with your fingers, at even intervals. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the top and brush it on evenly with a pastry brush (or just use clean fingers).

Step 7

Arrange your “garden” using followed by the garlic, coarse salt, and herbs.

Step 8

Bake for 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden on top and sounds hollow when tapped. Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm, cut into pieces.