Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia
Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals
I absolutely love making this Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia! The aroma that fills my kitchen while it's baking is simply irresistible. The combination of sweet caramelized onions and fragrant thyme creates a delightful flavor that can elevate any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or alongside a main dish, this focaccia is a true crowd-pleaser. The best part is how simple it is to make, using basic ingredients while delivering on taste. Trust me, once you taste this bread, you’ll want to bake it time and again!
When I first made this Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia, I was amazed at how easy and rewarding it was. The key is to slowly caramelize the onions over low heat—which brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. I found that mixing the thyme with the dough itself adds a lovely herbaceous note throughout the bread.
After trying various recipes, I discovered that a simple overnight rise makes a significant difference in texture, leading to a soft and airy focaccia. This method gives it that perfect chew while still being pillowy soft, making it a wonderful accompaniment to any Italian meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The delightful sweetness of caramelized onions complements the earthiness of thyme.
- Soft and airy texture that makes it irresistible to snack on.
- Perfect to accompany soups, salads, or as a standalone treat.
Mastering the Dough
The key to achieving a perfectly airy focaccia lies in the dough. When mixing the ingredients, ensure that you combine the flour, yeast, and salt thoroughly before adding water and olive oil. This not only helps in even distribution but also encourages the yeast to activate properly. Kneading for at least five minutes is crucial; look for a smooth texture that slightly springs back when pressed. This shows that you've developed sufficient gluten, which contributes to that delicious soft crumb.
Allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment helps in developing flavor and creating a light texture. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl in an oven preheated to the lowest setting for just a few minutes, then turning it off. Covering the bowl with a damp cloth retains moisture and keeps the dough from drying out, ensuring a successful rise without toughening the bread.
The Art of Caramelizing Onions
Caramelizing onions is a delicate process that transforms their natural sugars into a deep, rich flavor. Start at medium heat, where the onions cook slowly without burning. Stirring occasionally is key to even cooking. If you notice the onions starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent them from becoming bitter. Once they’re golden brown, typically around 20 minutes, adding thyme enhances their natural sweetness and adds an aromatic layer that pairs beautifully with the focaccia.
If you’re short on time, consider using a mix of yellow and sweet onions for a quicker caramelization while still achieving that flavor depth. Alternatively, you can prepare the caramelized onions a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and simply reheat them before topping your focaccia. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they sit.
Perfecting the Bake
Once you’ve shaped your focaccia and added the toppings, preheating the oven to the right temperature is essential for a crispy crust. A temperature of 425°F (220°C) is ideal for this recipe, giving you that golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender. To boost the crust's crispiness, you can preheat your baking sheet in the oven. This additional step creates a hot surface that ensures an extra rise.
After baking, let the focaccia cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This prevents moisture from accumulating on the bottom, maintaining that delightful crispness. For an added touch, drizzle the cooled focaccia with a bit of olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving, which enhances the flavor and makes it visually appealing.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering focaccia:
Focaccia Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Caramelized Onions and Thyme
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Additional thyme sprigs, for garnish
Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to bake your focaccia:
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Caramelize the Onions
While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
Shape and Top the Dough
Once the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet with a bit of olive oil. Punch down the dough, then transfer it to the sheet.
Bake the Focaccia
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Serve alongside your favorite dishes or enjoy on its own!
Pro Tips
- For an extra gourmet touch, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This focaccia is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it warm as an appetizer paired with a bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Alternatively, slice it into smaller pieces to use it as a base for mini sandwiches or to accompany a cheese platter. When served alongside soups or salads, the focaccia provides a delightful contrast to lighter dishes.
For a fun twist, try using the focaccia as a pizza base! Top it with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then bake it again for about 10-12 minutes. This can be an excellent way to use leftover focaccia should you have any, ensuring that none goes to waste.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftover focaccia, store it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore the crust's crispiness.
For a delectable breakfast or snack, consider toasting slices of the focaccia with a bit of butter or olive oil, then layering with fresh tomatoes, basil, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a quick and satisfying treat.
Flavor Variations
While caramelized onion and thyme is a classic combination, feel free to experiment with other flavors. Adding cheese, such as crumbled feta or mozzarella, before baking can take your focaccia to another level. Likewise, incorporating other herbs like rosemary or oregano can provide a new array of aromas and tastes to delight your palate.
For a savory twist, consider adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough before the first rise. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also creates a visually striking focaccia with added character in every bite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser texture.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze focaccia?
Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
→ What can I serve focaccia with?
It pairs well with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own with olive oil for dipping.
Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia
I absolutely love making this Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia! The aroma that fills my kitchen while it's baking is simply irresistible. The combination of sweet caramelized onions and fragrant thyme creates a delightful flavor that can elevate any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or alongside a main dish, this focaccia is a true crowd-pleaser. The best part is how simple it is to make, using basic ingredients while delivering on taste. Trust me, once you taste this bread, you’ll want to bake it time and again!
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Nourishing Comfort Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Focaccia Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Caramelized Onions and Thyme
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Additional thyme sprigs, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Stir in the thyme and remove from heat.
Once the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet with a bit of olive oil. Punch down the dough, then transfer it to the sheet. Stretch and press the dough to fit the pan. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface, then spread caramelized onions evenly on top. Sprinkle with sea salt and additional thyme.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Extra Tips
- For an extra gourmet touch, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 5g