Name: Savory Scallion Focaccia: Easy Rise for Perfect Flavor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 155 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with bread flour for extra chewiness); 2 teaspoons salt (Adjust to personal preference); 2 teaspoons instant yeast (Can use active dry yeast if activated); 1.25 cups room temperature water (Ensure it's lukewarm); 1 cup chopped green onions (scallions) (Chives or leeks can be alternatives); 2 tablespoons olive oil (Melted vegan butter can also be used); 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds (Optional for topping)

The enticing aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through my kitchen, a comforting embrace that calls to my senses. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Scallion Focaccia, where Italian tradition meets Taiwanese flair. With each bite, you’ll find a golden, crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior, infused with the vibrant flavor of green onions. This recipe is not just a quick win for busy cooks; it also offers the flexibility of preparing this bread with a same-day or overnight rise, making it a true gem for any home chef. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, used as a base for sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own, this focaccia is poised to become a delicious staple in your kitchen. What creative spins will you consider for your own batch?

Why is Scallion Focaccia a Must-Try?

Unique Fusion: This recipe combines Italian focaccia and Taiwanese scallion pancakes for a delightful twist that bursts with flavor.
Flexible Preparation: Choose between a speedy same-day rise or a leisurely overnight rise, tailored to your schedule.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether served warm at gatherings or as a side to family meals, it’s sure to impress.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it with soups, salads, or simply topped with your favorite spreads, making it an adaptable addition to any table.
Vegan Option: Easily adjust the recipe with substitutes like vegan butter so everyone can enjoy this scrumptious bread! Discover more about versatile dishes in our post on Easy Vegan Baking.

Scallion Focaccia Ingredients

• For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure of the bread; for extra chewiness, you can substitute with bread flour.
Salt – Enhances taste and strengthens gluten structure; feel free to adjust to personal preferences.
Instant Yeast – Promotes quick rising; you can use active dry yeast if activated before mixing in.
Room Temperature Water – Hydrates the flour and activates the yeast; ensure it's lukewarm to avoid killing the yeast.

• For the Filling

Chopped Green Onions (Scallions) – Adds vibrant flavor and texture; chives or leeks can be excellent alternatives.
Olive Oil – Offers flavor and helps achieve a crispy crust; melted vegan butter also works well for a different taste.
White Sesame Seeds – Provides texture and visual appeal; optional but adds a lovely touch on top.

This Scallion Focaccia is sure to delight your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallion Focaccia

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast until well combined. This ensures the yeast is evenly distributed. Gradually pour in 1 ¼ cups of room temperature water while stirring with a wooden spoon until no dry flour remains. The dough will be sticky and shaggy.

Step 2: Initial Rest
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to fully absorb the water, making the dough easier to work with when you start stretching it.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold
After the initial resting time, gently stretch and fold the dough in the bowl using your hands—this technique helps develop the gluten. Cover the dough again and let it rest for another 30 minutes. Repeat this stretch and fold step one more time to enhance the dough’s structure.

Step 4: Choose Your Rising Method
For a same-day rise, leave the dough at room temperature for 2-3 hours until it doubles in size. If you prefer an overnight rise, refrigerate the dough for 8-12 hours. Remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5: Prepare Scallions and Baking Dish
While the dough is rising, mix 1 cup of chopped scallions with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Set this mixture aside. Meanwhile, grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil, ensuring it's well coated to achieve a crispy crust.

Step 6: Incorporate Scallions into Dough
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Gently stretch the dough with your fingers to fit the shape of the pan. As you stretch, fold half of the scallion mixture into the dough, ensuring an even distribution throughout, adding flavor to the Scallion Focaccia.

Step 7: Final Rest and Preheat Oven
Cover the dish with a clean towel and allow the dough to rest for 45-60 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This final resting period will help the dough become light and airy, ready for baking.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Bake
Once the dough has puffed up, sprinkle the remaining scallions over the top. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil, and use your fingers to dimple the surface, creating small indentations. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the focaccia is beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 9: Brush and Serve
Optionally, after removing the focaccia from the oven, brush with an additional coating of olive oil for extra flavor and sheen. Slice while warm and serve this delicious Scallion Focaccia alongside your favorite dishes or enjoy it as a satisfying snack!

What to Serve with Scallion Focaccia

The delightful aroma of freshly baked focaccia deserves a perfect companion to round out your meal experience.

Savory Soups: A warm bowl of hearty minestrone or vegetable soup offers a comforting contrast, perfect for sopping up every last bit.
Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp arugula salad tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the focaccia.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside caramelized seasonal veggies for an earthy flavor combo that enhances the scallion notes beautifully.
Pasta Dishes: Consider a light pasta primavera, where the focaccia can serve as the perfect vehicle for enjoying the vibrant vegetables.
Artisan Cheese Platter: Add creamy cheeses like goat cheese or aged cheddar for a delightful bite; the textures contrast beautifully with the airy bread.
Herbed Olive Oil Dipping Sauce: Create a simple dipping sauce of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs for an enticing taste sensation.
Sweet Treats: Enjoy slices of focaccia with a fruity dessert, like a lemon tart, to end on a sweet and zesty note.
Refreshing Beverages: Complement with iced herbal tea or a light white wine, adding a crisp, refreshing element to your dining experience.

Indulging in these pairings alongside your Scallion Focaccia creates a wonderfully satisfying meal that embraces comfort and flavor in every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Scallion Focaccia

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Scallion Focaccia fresh, or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal flavor.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, although the texture may slightly soften.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring its crispy crust.

Make Ahead Options

These Scallion Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it after the initial rise, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. If you prefer, you can also mix the scallions with olive oil and a pinch of salt and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover everything well to keep the dough from drying out. When you're ready to bake, simply let the dough sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours, incorporate the scallions, and continue with the baking instructions for delicious, fresh bread anytime!

Tips for the Best Scallion Focaccia

Pan Choice Matters: Using a metal pan yields a crispier crust compared to glass; if using glass, you'll need to bake it longer for the same great result.
Perfectly Proofed Dough: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial—under-proofing can lead to a dense Scallion Focaccia. Aim for a well-rounded, airy loaf!
Temperature Check: Ensure your room temperature water is lukewarm, as hot water can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising effectively.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add herbs or your favorite spices into the dough for a personalized touch with each batch of Scallion Focaccia.
Resting is Key: Patience pays off! The final resting period before baking is essential in developing the airy texture and flavor, so don’t skip it!

Scallion Focaccia Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Scallion Focaccia, tailoring it to your taste buds and preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this delightful recipe without gluten.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil into the dough for an aromatic twist. Fresh flavors can elevate your focaccia to new heights!
Spicy Kick: Mix a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the olive oil topping for a delightful heat that complements the scallion flavor beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded dairy-free cheese or sprinkle it on top before baking for a delicious cheesy finish. Cheese lovers will adore this variation!
Nutty Finish: Top with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an added crunch and nutty flavor contrast. It’s a simple way to enhance texture!
Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the baked focaccia for a sweet and tangy flavor that beautifully complements the scallions. Add a new layer of flavor!
Savory Topping: Before baking, sprinkle fried garlic or crispy shallots on top. This adds an enticing crunch and deeper flavor with every bite.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace olive oil with melted coconut oil or vegan butter to ensure your focaccia remains plant-based and scrumptious. Discover more vegan options in our guide on Plant-Based Baking.

Scallion Focaccia Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for Scallion Focaccia?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for this recipe, as it creates a light and airy texture. However, if you prefer a chewier bread, bread flour is a fantastic alternative that adds a nice bite!

How can I tell when my dough has risen enough?
Look for the dough to double in size; it should feel puffy and airy to the touch. You can gently poke it with your finger—if the indentation remains, it’s ready! Under-proofed dough will result in a dense focaccia.

Can I freeze undecooked dough for Scallion Focaccia?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the risen dough tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before continuing with the recipe.

What's the best way to store leftover Scallion Focaccia?
For the best taste, keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you'd like to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be aware that the texture may soften a bit. For a crispy crust, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Are there any common troubleshooting tips for Scallion Focaccia?
If your focaccia turns out dense, it could be due to under-proofing. Ensure you allow enough time for the dough to rise adequately. Also, make sure your yeast is fresh! If it doesn’t foam in the water, it won't help your bread rise properly. For overly wet dough, you can sprinkle a little more flour during mixing until it's manageable.

Can my pets enjoy Scallion Focaccia?
While scallions are delicious for humans, they are toxic to cats and dogs. It’s best to keep your focaccia away from your furry friends, even in small amounts, as they can cause gastrointestinal upset. Stick to dog- and cat-safe treats if you want to share some love!