Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey: 5 Irresistible Reasons

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey! It’s one of those breads that makes your kitchen smell like heaven while it bakes. Imagine the sweet, earthy notes of figs mingling with the aromatic rosemary, all drizzled with the silky sweetness of honey. Seriously, it’s a flavor explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing! I’ve been making this focaccia for years, and it’s become a staple at my gatherings—friends and family can’t get enough of it.

This recipe is special to me because it reminds me of summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s backyard. She had a beautiful rosemary bush, and we’d pick sprigs to add to everything, from roasted potatoes to bread. When I combined her love for fresh herbs with my love for figs, this focaccia was born! It’s perfect for sharing, whether as an appetizer or a delightful side to a cozy dinner. Trust me, once you try this Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients for Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey

• 500 grams All Purpose Flour
• 400 grams Water (close to room temperature and filtered)
• 3 grams Instant Yeast
• 9 grams Fine Sea Salt
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil (divided into two tablespoons for the pan and the rest for drizzling)
• 3 Black Mission Figs, sliced
• 2 Sprigs of Fresh Rosemary (or 1/4 teaspoon of dried rosemary)
• 1 teaspoon Maldon Flaky Salt for topping
• 1 tablespoon Honey for drizzling

How to Prepare Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

To kick things off, grab a medium-sized bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, water, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. I usually use my hands for this part—it’s a mess, but oh-so-satisfying! Mix until everything is just combined; it doesn’t have to be perfect. Now, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the flour to hydrate and the yeast to start working its magic.

Step 2: Stretching and Folding the Dough

After the dough has rested, it’s time for some gentle stretching and folding! With a wet hand, slide your fingers under one edge of the dough and fold it into the center of the bowl. Repeat this around the bowl, making about two full rounds or eight stretches in total. This process strengthens the gluten, giving your focaccia that lovely chewy texture. Don’t rush it—cover the dough again and let it rest for another 20 minutes. You’ll want to repeat this stretching and folding two more times for a total of three rounds. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Step 3: Proofing the Dough

Once you’ve finished the stretching rounds, it’s time to transfer the dough to an oiled bowl. Just drizzle a little olive oil in there and turn the dough to coat all sides—this prevents it from sticking. Cover the bowl tightly and pop it in the fridge for some serious flavor development. You’ll want to let it proof for anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, so plan ahead! The longer it sits, the better the flavor.

Step 4: Preparing to Bake

After the dough has had its beauty sleep in the fridge and doubled in size, it’s time to get your oven ready! Preheat it to 425°F (220°C). Pour two tablespoons of olive oil into a 9×13-inch aluminum pan, then gently transfer your dough into that luxurious pool of oil. Use your fingers to dimple the dough—this step is crucial! Not only does it create those beautiful pockets of air, but it also helps hold all those delicious toppings in place. Scatter the sliced figs and rosemary over the surface, then sprinkle with flaky salt.

Step 5: Baking and Serving

Now comes the best part—baking! Slide your focaccia into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and utterly irresistible. Once it’s out, don’t forget the finishing touch: drizzle some honey over the top while it’s still warm. Slice it up and get ready for the compliments to roll in! Enjoy this Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey fresh, or let it cool and save some for later—it’s just as delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The delightful pairing of sweet figs and aromatic rosemary creates a flavor profile that’s both unexpected and utterly delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, this focaccia is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. No fancy equipment is required—just your hands and a bowl!
• Beautiful Presentation: The dimpled surface adorned with figs and rosemary not only looks stunning but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light dessert drizzled with honey, this focaccia is incredibly versatile and sure to please a crowd.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Each bite offers a chewy texture and a satisfying taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips. First, make sure your water is at room temperature—this helps the yeast activate beautifully without shocking it. If you can, use a kitchen scale for measuring flour and water; it’s more accurate and can make a big difference in your dough’s consistency.

When stretching and folding the dough, be gentle! You want to maintain those air pockets that will give your focaccia a light texture. And don’t skip the proofing in the fridge; it really enhances the flavor. If you’re out of fresh rosemary, dried works just fine—just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated. Finally, feel free to experiment with toppings! A sprinkle of cheese or nuts can add an extra layer of flavor. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Each slice of this Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey is a delightful treat, boasting approximately 180 calories. You’ll find about 7 grams of fat, 4 grams of protein, and 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving. It also contains around 3 grams of sugar and 150 milligrams of sodium. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this delicious bread guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of figs for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Black Mission figs lend a lovely sweetness, you can use any variety you have on hand, like Calimyrna or Adriatic figs. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!

Q2: How can I make this focaccia gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Just keep an eye on the dough’s consistency, as gluten-free flours can behave differently.

Q3: What can I substitute for fresh rosemary?
If fresh rosemary isn’t available, dried rosemary will work, but remember to use less—about 1/4 teaspoon should do the trick, as dried herbs are more potent. You might also try thyme or oregano for a different twist!

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
To store your Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for a few days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it—just make sure to slice it first for easy thawing!

Q5: Can I add cheese to this focaccia?
Yes! Adding cheese, like crumbled feta or mozzarella, can enhance the flavor beautifully. Just sprinkle it on top along with the figs and rosemary before baking, and enjoy that cheesy goodness!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Fig and Rosemary Focaccia with Honey fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, slice the focaccia and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy that freshly baked aroma all over again!

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