French Onion Focaccia is a delicious twist on the classic Italian focaccia bread, infused with the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions. It’s soft, flavorful, and perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a sandwich base. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe to make French Onion Focaccia at home:
French Onion Focaccia Recipe
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
For the onion topping:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For finishing:
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Stir until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Caramelize the Onions:
- While the dough is rising, caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and sugar to the pan. Stir to coat the onions in the butter and oil.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. If needed, turn the heat down to low to avoid burning the onions.
- Add fresh thyme leaves (if using) during the last few minutes of cooking. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Focaccia:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to deflate it. Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet (around 9×13 inches) or a round pizza pan.
- Stretch the dough into a rectangle or circle, depending on your pan.
- Use your fingertips to dimple the dough evenly across the surface.
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly on top of the dough, pressing them lightly into the dough.
- Drizzle the focaccia with a little olive oil.
5. Bake the Focaccia:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the focaccia with Parmesan cheese (if using) for an extra cheesy flavor.
6. Finishing Touches:
- Once out of the oven, drizzle with a little more olive oil and garnish with additional fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Tips:
- Dough variations: You can also add garlic or rosemary to the dough for added flavor.
- Make ahead: The dough can be made ahead and left to rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
- Toppings: If you prefer, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt or balsamic vinegar for an extra kick.
This French Onion Focaccia is aromatic, full of flavor, and has the perfect balance of savory caramelized onions with the softness of focaccia. Enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a sandwich base!