AROMATIC WILD HERB CRUSTED FOCACCIA

pREP TIME: 20 MINUTES (+1hr rest) - COOK TIME: 25 MINUTES - serves: 6-8. recipe by maddison lee

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500 g plain flour (or bread flour)

• 2 tsp instant yeast

• 1 tsp sugar

• 2 tsp salt

• 325 ml warm water

• 3 tbsp olive oil

For the Aromatic Wild Herb Crust:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)

• 2 tsp Rub-A-Dub Aromatic Wild Herb Seasoning

• 1 tsp sea salt flakes

Method

1. Activate the Yeast:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Make the Dough:

   • Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

   • Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Focaccia:

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan-forced) or 220°C (conventional).

   • Transfer the dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Gently stretch it into a rectangle or oval about 2 cm thick.

5. Add the Herby Crust:

   • Mix olive oil with Rub-A-Dub Aromatic Wild Herb Seasoning.

   • Use your fingertips to make dimples all over the dough, then drizzle the herby oil evenly.

   • Sprinkle with sea salt flakes.

6. Bake:

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on top.

   • Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving.

Suggestions for Dietary Needs

• Vegan: This focaccia is naturally vegan! Use olive oil instead of butter for brushing.

• Vegetarian: Suitable as-is. Try topping with feta, cherry tomatoes, or olives before baking for a Mediterranean twist.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free bread flour mix and slightly reduce water (about 275 ml). Add 1 tsp xanthan gum for better texture if your mix doesn’t contain it.