Why You’ll Love this Gluten Free Focaccia Recipe
If you’ve ever craved the warm, comforting taste of focaccia but worried about gluten, you’ll love this recipe.
I’ve made gluten-free focaccia that’s soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you won’t believe how quickly it comes together.
The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese.
I often serve it fresh from the oven as a side dish or enjoy it on its own. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll forget it’s gluten-free.
This focaccia will quickly become a go-to favorite in your home!
Ingredients of Gluten Free Focaccia
When it comes to making gluten-free focaccia, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that delightful, fluffy texture and delicious flavor. This recipe is packed with simple components that you might already have in your pantry, or you can easily find them at your local grocery store.
Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this comforting bread that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a warm snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast (one packet)
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup tapioca flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons xanthan gum
- 1 tablespoon minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg or 1/4 cup egg substitute
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Onion salt (for sprinkling)
- Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Sliced olives (optional)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- Additional cheese (optional)
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients for a second. If you’re new to gluten-free baking, you might be scratching your head at xanthan gum. What on earth is that? Well, it’s a thickening agent that helps give gluten-free dough its structure and elasticity.
Think of it as the secret weapon in your gluten-free arsenal. And don’t worry if you don’t have all the toppings on hand. This focaccia is super flexible. You could throw in whatever you fancy—herbs, roasted garlic, or even just keep it simple with a sprinkle of salt and olive oil.
The key is to have fun and make it your own!
How to Make Gluten Free Focaccia
Making gluten-free focaccia is an adventure in itself, and trust me, it’s a rewarding one! First things first, grab 2 teaspoons of sugar and mix it into 1 cup of lukewarm water. Once that sugar dissolves, sprinkle in 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast (that’s one packet) and let it hang out for a few minutes. This little yeast party is what makes your focaccia rise and gives it that fluffy texture we all crave.
In the meantime, whisk together 1 cup of rice flour, 1/2 cup of tapioca flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of xanthan gum, 1 tablespoon of minced onion, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a separate bowl. This mixture will form the backbone of your bread, so make sure it’s well combined.
Now, let’s bring it all together. In another bowl, blend 1 egg (or if you’re feeling fancy, 1/4 cup of egg substitute) and 3 tablespoons of olive oil with your yeast water. Once that’s mixed, it’s time to add your dry ingredients. Go ahead and dump that flour mixture into the wet ingredients and beat it on high for about 2 minutes. Sure, you could use a heavy-duty mixer, but I’ve always done it by hand. It’s a little workout, but hey, who doesn’t love a bit of arm exercise?
Once your dough is all mixed and smooth, pour it into a greased 9×13 pan, spreading it to cover the bottom. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top and sprinkle it with onion salt, parmesan cheese, or any toppings your heart desires—sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes work wonders here too.
Now comes the hardest part: waiting. Cover your pan and let that dough rise for 20-25 minutes if you used rapid yeast, or 40-45 minutes for regular yeast. It’s like watching paint dry, but trust me, it’s worth it. While it’s rising, preheat your oven to 400°F.
Once your focaccia has puffed up a bit, slide that pan into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until it’s slightly browned. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, and you might just start dancing a little. When it’s done, cut it into squares and enjoy it hot. It’s perfect for dipping, snacking, or just enjoying on its own. Happy baking!
Gluten Free Focaccia Substitutions & Variations
While you’re enjoying the process of baking gluten-free focaccia, it’s fun to explore different substitutions and variations that can elevate your bread to new heights.
For example, if you don’t have rice flour, try using almond or oat flour instead. You can also experiment with different oils; I love adding garlic-infused olive oil for an extra kick.
Want a cheesy twist? Mix in some shredded mozzarella or feta. For toppings, consider roasted garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even caramelized onions.
If you’re looking for a savory touch, sun-dried tomatoes and olives work wonders! The beauty of focaccia is how adaptable it is, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite flavors.
What to Serve with Gluten Free Focaccia
If you’re wondering what to serve with gluten-free focaccia, the options are truly delightful.
I love pairing it with a fresh, vibrant salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the focaccia perfectly.
For something heartier, consider a warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or minestrone. The focaccia’s texture is perfect for dipping!
If you’re in the mood for an appetizer, I often serve it alongside a platter of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses. You can’t go wrong with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Whether it’s a casual lunch or a dinner party, gluten-free focaccia adds a special touch to any meal. Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing gluten-free focaccia with a fresh salad or hearty soup can elevate your meal, but there are also some tips to enhance your baking experience.
First, make sure your yeast is fresh; it’s essential for that perfect rise. I often recommend using a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially with gluten-free flours, as they can vary in weight.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings—fresh herbs, roasted garlic, or even different cheeses can add delightful flavors. If you like a crispier crust, bake it a bit longer but keep an eye on it.
Finally, letting the focaccia cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its structure. Enjoy your homemade focaccia, and feel free to get creative!