Description
An easy, no-knead sourdough discard focaccia that is golden, crisp on the bottom, and pillowy soft in the middle. This forgiving recipe uses a cold ferment for deep flavor and requires only pantry staples.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (100-110°F / 38-43°C)
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt
- ½ cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, sourdough discard, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add all-purpose flour and fine sea salt. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until no dry flour remains. The dough should be sticky and shaggy.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil into a 9×13 inch baking pan. Swirl to coat the bottom and sides generously.
- Scrape the dough into the prepared pan. Wet your hands with water or oil and gently press/stretch the dough to cover the pan evenly.
- Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8-12 hours (overnight) for a slow cold ferment.
- Remove the pan from the fridge about 1 hour before baking. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with a rack in the lower third.
- Drizzle the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil over the dough. Use oiled fingertips to press deep dimples all the way to the pan.
- Sprinkle minced garlic (if using), chopped rosemary, and flaky sea salt over the top. Press gently to adhere.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown and bubbly. If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 5 minutes.
- Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before lifting onto a wire rack.
Notes
For best flavor, do not skip the overnight cold ferment in the fridge. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil as it is a primary flavor component. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow gluten to relax. Ensure the bottom is deep golden brown for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: sourdough discard, focaccia, rosemary bread, easy bread, no knead bread, vegan bread, gluten free option