Gluten Free Sourdough Focaccia – a phrase that once seemed like an oxymoron, is now a delicious reality thanks to the ingenuity of gluten-free bakers. This guide will be your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about making incredible, airy, and flavorful gluten free sourdough focaccia.
Golden brown gluten free sourdough focaccia on a cooling rack, topped with fresh herbs and sea salt.
Why Gluten Free Sourdough Focaccia?
Before diving into the baking process, let’s uncover why this bread has stolen the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Imagine a warm, pillowy bread with a crispy crust, begging to be dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. That’s focaccia! But not just any focaccia, this is gluten free sourdough focaccia – offering a depth of flavor and texture that rivals its gluten-full counterpart.
The Science Behind Gluten Free Sourdough
Traditional sourdough relies on gluten, a protein found in wheat, to develop its characteristic chew. But fear not, gluten-free bakers! By harnessing the power of a sourdough starter and a blend of gluten-free flours, we can recreate that same airy texture and tangy flavor.
The sourdough starter, a fermented mixture of gluten-free flour and water, is the heart of this magic. It’s teeming with beneficial bacteria and wild yeast that break down starches and create air bubbles, giving the bread its rise and distinctive flavor.
An active gluten free sourdough starter in a glass jar, bubbling vigorously.
Choosing the Right Gluten Free Flours
The success of your gluten free sourdough focaccia hinges on choosing the right flour blend. Unlike wheat flour, which has a predictable gluten structure, gluten-free flours behave differently and require a bit of experimentation. Here are a few popular choices:
- Brown Rice Flour: This flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and a bit of density.
- White Rice Flour: Lighter than brown rice flour, it contributes to a softer crumb.
- Tapioca Starch: This starch adds chewiness and helps create a crispy crust.
- Xanthan Gum: While not a flour, xanthan gum is crucial for binding and providing the structure that gluten would typically provide.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with other flours like sorghum flour, millet flour, or even chickpea flour to create your perfect blend!
Baking the Perfect Gluten Free Sourdough Focaccia
Ready to put your newfound knowledge into practice? Let’s bake!
Ingredients:
- 200g active gluten-free sourdough starter
- 300g warm water
- 100g brown rice flour
- 100g white rice flour
- 50g tapioca starch
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Fresh rosemary, for topping
- Coarse sea salt, for topping
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and olive oil.
- Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flours, xanthan gum, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Bulk Fermentation: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 4-6 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape and Proof: Gently transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using your fingertips, dimple the dough and create small wells for the toppings. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary and sea salt. Let it proof for another hour.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake the focaccia for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
FAQs: Gluten Free Sourdough Focaccia
Q: Can I use a regular (gluten-containing) sourdough starter for this recipe?
A: No, using a regular sourdough starter would introduce gluten to the recipe. Be sure to use a dedicated gluten-free sourdough starter.
Q: My gluten free sourdough focaccia is dense, what happened?
A: There could be a few reasons for this: your starter might not be active enough, you might have over-mixed the dough, or the baking time might need adjusting.
Q: Can I freeze gluten free sourdough focaccia?
A: Absolutely! Once cooled completely, wrap the focaccia tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Need More Gluten-Free Goodies?
Check out these other delicious recipes on our site:
- Gluten Free Sourdough Discard Focaccia: Don’t throw away that discard! This recipe shows you how to use it to make more delicious focaccia.
- Gluten Free Sourdough Kit: Just starting your gluten-free sourdough journey? This kit has everything you need to get started.
- Gluten Free Sourdough Bread San Francisco: Experience the taste of San Francisco with this gluten-free sourdough bread recipe.
- Gluten Free Baskets for Holidays: Looking for the perfect gift? Give the gift of delicious gluten-free baked goods with these holiday baskets.
Conclusion
Making gluten free sourdough focaccia might seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance and a dash of patience, you’ll be rewarded with a bread that is both delicious and impressive. So, gather your ingredients, awaken your inner baker, and enjoy the wonderful world of gluten free sourdough focaccia!
For any questions or assistance, feel free to contact us:
Phone Number: 0972669017
Email: [email protected]
Address: 142 Tran Nhan Tong, Yen Thanh, Uong Bi, Quang Ninh, Vietnam.
Our dedicated customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you.