Notes
This recipe uses a blend of all-purpose plain white flour and strong white bread flour. This is important for hitting a nice high gluten content, which is what keeps the focaccia fluffy and chewy at the same time. A stand mixer also strengthens the gluten in the dough. If you don’t have a mixer, knead by hand for 5 minutes or so.
Basil oil gives this recipe a real kick of basil flavor. Don’t be tempted to make this part of the recipe too far in advance or you’ll lose some of that wonderful bright, herby aroma.
The dough has a very high water content, which can make it a bit difficult to handle. Make sure you have wet hands before spreading the dough out into the greased tray.
Be sure to add the fresh basil leaves only after the baked focaccia has cooled down. Otherwise, the leaves will wilt and turn dark.