Hey there, bread lovers!
Are you in the mood for something special? I’ve got a treat for you!
Today, I’m excited to share my delicious cottage cheese focaccia recipe.
It’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for sharing (or not—no judgment here!).
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this tasty bread.
Let’s get started!
| Preparation Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Total Time | 60-90 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup very warm water
- 4 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed or chopped)
- 2 3/4 cups plain flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- a pinch of ground black pepper
- a small handful of fresh flat leaf parsley
- 1 tomato (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup crumbled paneer or cottage cheese
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
In a cup, mix 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar with 1 cup of very warm water.
Allow the mixture to sit and foam for 5-10 minutes.
This step activates the yeast, giving your dough its rise.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic-Infused Oil
While the yeast is proofing, crush or chop 4 garlic pods and add them to 4 tablespoons of oil in a microwave-safe container.
Heat the combination in the microwave for 30-40 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
This step infuses the oil with a delicious garlic flavor.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, a pinch of black pepper powder, and a few chopped parsley leaves (reserve some parsley for topping).
Whisk these dry ingredients well to ensure they are fully combined.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Add the foamed yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of the garlic-infused oil to the flour mixture.
Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 5-8 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Lightly coat a bowl with oil and place the kneaded dough inside.
Turn the dough in the bowl to coat all surfaces with oil.
Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
During this time, the dough should double in size.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
This ensures the oven will be hot and ready when the dough is finished rising and ready to be baked.
