- Introduction to Savory Rosemary Focaccia Bread Bites
The world of bread is vast and diverse, offering an array of flavors and textures that can cater to every palate. Among the many varieties, Focaccia stands out as one of the most versatile and beloved types of bread. Originating from Italy, focaccia is known for its chewy texture and the ability to be customized with countless toppings and seasonings. This recipe introduces you to a delightful twist on traditional focaccia: Savory Rosemary Focaccia Bread Bites. These bite-sized delights not only capture the essence of classic focaccia but also elevate it with the robust flavor of rosemary. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or simply as a snack, these bread bites are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
- Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 1 packet (or 2 1/4 teaspoons) |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons |
| Warm water | 1 cup (105-115°F) |
| Rosemary | 2 tablespoons chopped fresh |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coarse sea salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Chopped olives or other toppings (optional) | To taste |
- Method
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Begin by activating your yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm water (105-115°F), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl with the flour and salt. Add 1/4 cup of olive oil and mix thoroughly. You can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or a wooden spoon for this step. The dough should come together smoothly. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a little water. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. The ideal temperature for rising is around 75-80°F.
Step 4: Shaping the Bites
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into small balls, each about the size of a golf ball. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for expansion. Press each ball gently with your fingertips to flatten them slightly. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the tops of the dough pieces, along with garlic powder and coarse sea salt. If desired, add chopped olives or other toppings at this stage.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the baking sheet loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest again for another 30 minutes. This second rise will help the flavors meld together and ensure that the bread bites are light and airy.
Step 6: Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Drizzle the top of each bread bite with a small amount of olive oil. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Remove the bread bites from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve these savory rosemary focaccia bread bites warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with dips like hummus or balsamic glaze, or simply enjoy them on their own as a delicious snack.
- Tips and Variations
Tips: For an extra crispy crust, brush the tops of the bread bites with egg wash before baking. Additionally, using a pizza stone can enhance the baking process, providing better heat distribution and crisper bottoms.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or basil instead of rosemary. Adding grated Parmesan cheese or sun-dried tomatoes can also provide unique twists to your focaccia bites. Consider incorporating various seeds like poppy or sesame for added texture and flavor.
- Nutritional Information
| Per Serving (Assuming 12 servings) | Calories | Total Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
| Approximate | 150 kcal | 5g | 25g | 3g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Conclusion
Making Savory Rosemary Focaccia Bread Bites is not only a rewarding culinary experience but also an opportunity to create something truly special for yourself and others. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a tasty treat, these mini focaccias offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that are hard to resist. Enjoy crafting these delightful bites and savor each bite with confidence!
