The Focaccia by Hairy Bikers: A Culinary Journey

The Focaccia by Hairy Bikers is more than just a bread; it's a piece of Italian culinary heritage that has been given a British twist by the renowned duo, Si King and Dave Myers. This Italian olive-oil bread, known for its crispy crust and fluffy interior, is characterized by its aromatic rosemary and sea salt topping. The Hairy Bikers have made this recipe accessible to home cooks, ensuring that you can bring a slice of Italy into your kitchen with ease.

Ingredients for the Hairy Bikers Focaccia

• Warm water (approximately 315 ml, ensuring a temperature around 43°C)
• Sugar or honey (2 teaspoons)
• Active-dry yeast (1 package, about 7 grams)
• All-purpose flour (approximately 438 grams)
• Extra virgin olive oil (for the dough and drizzling, 60 ml plus more)
• Flaky sea salt (for the dough and sprinkling, 2 teaspoons plus extra)
• Fresh rosemary (2 sprigs)​​.

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by activating the yeast in warm water mixed with sugar or honey, waiting for it to foam.
2. Gradually incorporate the flour, olive oil, and sea salt into the yeast mixture, kneading until you achieve a smooth dough.
3. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
4. Shape and flatten the dough on a baking surface, then let it undergo a second rise.
5. Before baking, dimple the dough's surface and garnish with olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt.
6. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through​​.

Storage and Reheating

To maintain the freshness of your focaccia, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the focaccia, keeping it in airtight bags for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, either reheat slices in the oven until warm or use the microwave for a quick warm-up​​.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this focaccia (assuming the loaf is divided into six portions) provides roughly 280 calories, with a notable amount of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. It's important to note that the use of olive oil contributes both to the flavor and the calorie count​​.

FAQ about the Hairy Bikers Focaccia

• What distinguishes focaccia from pizza?
  Focaccia tends to be thicker with a focus on the olive oil-infused crust, whereas pizza features a thinner base with more emphasis on toppings.
• How do I know when the focaccia is fully baked?
  The bread should display a golden brown color on both top and bottom, and sound hollow when tapped.
• Can I prepare the focaccia dough in advance?
  Yes, refrigerating the dough can slow down the fermentation process, potentially enhancing the flavor​​.

This focaccia recipe by the Hairy Bikers is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful project for any home cook. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, as part of an antipasti platter, or simply enjoyed on its own, this focaccia brings the essence of Italian baking into your home with the charm and expertise of the Hairy Bikers.