Vegan Focaccia

With 10 minutes of hands-on prep time and no kneading required, this Vegan Focaccia is ridiculously easy to make. The hardest part is waiting for it to rise, then bake!

If bread is your favorite food, then you’ll love this easy Vegan Focaccia recipe. It’s slathered in olive oil, incredibly fluffy on the inside, and golden and crispy on the outside. Best of all, it’s one of the most beginner-friendly artisan breads there is!

Just like my no knead Dutch Oven Bread, this focaccia recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients to give you bakery-style results every time. Making the dough is relatively hands-off and doesn’t require much kneading, too. The fun part comes when it’s time to coat the dough in olive oil and press dimples on top.

Toppings are a great way to upgrade your vegan focaccia bread’s flavor. I used fresh rosemary and salt but you can use sliced vegetables, homemade sauces, and even vegan meat instead. Scroll down to the focaccia topping ideas below for more options!

What is focaccia?

Focaccia bread is a dimpled Italian flat bread made with yeast, flour, and lots of olive oil. It’s a large, rectangular bread that’s pillowy and fluffy on the inside while the outside is golden and crisp. Because of its long and wide shape, focaccia is fantastic at holding toppings or being used as an alternative crust for homemade pizza.

How to make vegan focaccia bread

Find the complete printable recipe with measurements below in the recipe card.

Whisk the flour, salt, yeast, and sugar together in a large bowl. Pour in the warm water and gently stir until you’re left with a sticky dough.

Pour some oil into the bowl and turn the dough to coat the outside.

Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and place it in the fridge. Let the dough rise overnight or for up to 3 days.

Pour some oil into a (vegan) buttered baking pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and roll it around in the oil. Cover the pan and set it aside so the dough can rise again.

Sprinkle the toppings of your choice over the focaccia dough (I used fresh rosemary). Drizzle the remaining oil on top.

Using clean hands, press your fingers straight down into the dough to create deep dimples (you should hit the bottom of the pan). Gently stretch the dough to fill the pan.

Bake the focaccia until it’s golden brown and crisp on the bottom.

Set it aside to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Quick focaccia

Focaccia is truly so much better if you let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, or better yet for a few days. That said, you can make quick focaccia if you need to.

Simply let the dough rise in the bowl for 30 minutes in a warm place, then transfer to the pan and let rise for another 30 minutes. Bake per the instructions.

Toppings for focaccia bread

Mix and match the toppings for vegan focaccia as much as you like. Just make sure to press them into the dough before baking so they stick.

All of these ideas would be delicious:

• Fresh or dried herbs – Rosemary, oregano, basil, thyme, or parsley.
• Spices – Sea salt or flaky salt, garlic powder, freshly cracked pepper, or red chili flakes.
• Aromatics – Thinly sliced garlic, roasted garlic cloves, or thinly sliced shallots, onions, or green onions.
• Vegetables – Sliced peppers, asparagus, olives, sliced heirloom tomatoes, capers, thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced potatoes.
• Vegan meat – Sliced vegan pepperoni, tofu bacon, or tempeh bacon.
• Vegan cheese – Shredded vegan parmesan, mozzarella, or ricotta.
• Sauces – Pizza sauce, vegan pesto, dairy free alfredo sauce, or balsamic reduction.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about the toppings burning in the oven, lightly brush them with more olive oil before baking.

Serving suggestions

Olive oil infuses so much flavor into focaccia. It’s practically addictive when eaten on its own, but it can also be served in so many creative ways, such as:

• Slice the focaccia and serve it with an Italian-style dinner. It pairs perfectly with vegan lasagna, spaghetti, chickpea soup, and vegan meatballs.
• Eat it as a snack with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• It’s a comforting bread that makes bowls of butternut squash soup and tomato soup 10 times as cozy.
• Layer the dough with pizza sauce, vegan pepperoni, dried herbs, and shredded vegan cheese for a focaccia pizza.
• Slice the focaccia in half and layer it with hummus, leafy greens, and roasted vegetables for an epic vegan sandwich.

Frequently asked questions

Want more bakery-style vegan bread recipes?

• Vegan Irish Soda Bread
• Vegan Dinner Rolls
• Dutch Oven Bread
• Vegan Monkey Bread
• Vegan Garlic Bread

Print

Vegan Focaccia

With 10 minutes of hands-on prep time and no kneading required, this Vegan Focaccia is ridiculously easy to make. The hardest part is waiting for it to rise, then bake!

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian-inspired

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Rise time 1 day day

Total Time 1 day day 35 minutes minutes

Servings 12 servings

Calories 218kcal

Author Nora Taylor

Ingredients

• 4 cups all purpose flour or bread flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 packet instant yeast 2 1/4 tsp
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 cups warm water
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• vegan butter, for greasing the pan
• flaky sea salt
• Optional fresh rosemary, sliced tomatoes

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, yeast and sugar.
• Pour in the warm water and mix with a rubber spatula, until a sticky dough is formed.
• Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the bowl and coat the outside of the entire dough ball, flipping it over inside the bowl.
• Cover the bowl with a clean damp tea towel (or plastic wrap) and place in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours (overnight) or up to 3 days. To make the quick version, see Notes.
• Grease a 9×13 inch pan with vegan butter. Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the center of the pan.
• Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, and roll the dough ball in the oil to coat it all over. Cover the pan and let the dough rise for 2-3 hours at room temperature, until the dough covers most of the pan and has expanded.
• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
• If using fresh rosemary, sprinkle it over the dough. Drizzle the last 2 tablespoons of olive oil on the dough. Rub your hands lightly in the oil, then use all of your fingers to press straight down and create deep dimples, all the way down. Gently stretch the dough to fill the pan, if needed as you make the holes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
• Bake in the center rack of the oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden.
• Carefully transfer the focaccia to a cooling rack. Let cool for 10 minutes, or longer, before slicing and serving.

Notes

1. Optional toppings – sliced peppers, asparagus, green onions, olives, tomatoes, onions, thinly sliced potatoes are all good options. Press the ingredients into the dough to embed them.
2. Storage – It will keep for a few days in an airtight container. Or wrap it well and freeze it.
3. Yeast options – You can use regular yeast instead, but you should mix it with the warm water before adding to the flour mixture, to proof it. This step isn’t necessary with instant yeast.
4. Quick version – The focaccia will be SO MUCH BETTER if you let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, or for up to 3 days. But you can make quick focaccia if needed. Once you make the dough and coat in olive oil, let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place, covered. Then transfer to the greased pan and let rise again for 30 minutes. Stretch the dough to cover the pan if needed, and dimple with your fingers per the instructions. Bake and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1of 12 servings | Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 391mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 0.002mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 2mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it difficult to switch to a plant-based diet?

You may find it intimidating to make the transition to a plantbased diet. You can make small adjustments to your diet to make it easier to transition to a plant-based lifestyle. Each person's individual needs mean that the transition should be tailored to their lifestyle. One way to make the process easier is to structure meals around whole foods rather than processed items to ensure adequate intake of macronutrients as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Individuals should focus on creating delicious meals that are enjoyable to eat and meet their dietary requirements.

Building a support system full of friends, family members, or certified health professionals can help individuals stay on track with their goals for transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle. Making new recipes is a great way to spice up your journey. So that people don't feel deprived or bored, there are plenty of delicious vegan options. It is important to slowly change while being mindful of your daily nutrient intake in order to make a plant-based transition.

What are some excellent sources of protein on a plant-based diet?

Some excellent sources of protein on a plant-based diet include legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas; soy products like tofu and tempeh; grains such as quinoa and teff; nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews; seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower; and green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Many of these plant-based proteins provide fiber in addition to essential micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. Adding omega-3 fatty acids in things like flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, or hemp seeds can help balance nutrient levels on a plant-based diet.

Can I Eat Meat on A Plant-Based Diet?

Plant-based diets do not allow you to eat meat, fish, or poultry. However, certain foods can still be made from plant-based ingredients. However, people who are on a plant diet can still eat eggs or dairy in moderation. People who want to switch to a plant-based diet with more flavor and protein can find many options. Plant-based diets emphasize fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes (such as beans and lentils), nuts and seeds like oatmeal and quinoa as well as soy products and fortified food such as non-dairy coconut or almond milk.

In addition to restaurants specializing in vegan food or offering vegan menu items (like certain fast food chains), it's possible to find vegan products in most grocery stores. Soy-based meats such as tofu, seitan (wheat gluten), tempeh (fermented soybeans), and mock duck made from mushrooms can all mimic the flavor and texture of traditional meat dishes. A growing number of vegetarian burgers are made with black beans or quinoa. They have a similar taste to beef burgers.

For those who are looking for more than just a replacement for their favorite carnivorous foods, there are many plant-based alternative options. There are many vegan alternatives, including coconut bacon strips or eggplant bits; tofu mighto; veggie hotdogs made with seasoned and textured soy proteins; and faux chicken strips made of wheat gluten. Furthermore, while some processed forms of fermented fungi, like mushrooms, taste like something similar to steak or pork when cooked properly, they can have similar sensory properties as meat but with significantly less environmental impact due to their far lower water use when compared with livestock production. These alternatives can be used to replace meats that you might have once eaten, making it easier to transition to a plant-based diet.

What are some tips to make the transition from a plant-based diet to one?

The transition to a plantbased diet can seem intimidating but can lead to an exciting lifestyle change. These are some tips for transitioning into this type if diet:

1. For adequate macronutrients and vitamins, it is important to structure meals around whole foods, rather than processed products.
2. Focusing on creating meals that are enjoyable to eat and meet dietary needs.
3. You can create a support network such as family members, friends, and certified health professionals.
4. Try new recipes to spice up your meals.
5. You can slowly change your habits, but you must also be mindful of your nutrient intake.

These tips can help individuals to transition slowly to a plant based diet.

Can I eat poultry on a plant-based food diet?

It is impossible to eat chicken on a plant-based diet. Plant-based diets eliminate all animal products including poultry, fish, meat, and fish. However, several vegan alternatives to traditionally meat-centric dishes offer the same flavor and texture without animal products. Tofu, seitan (wheat flour), tempeh, fermented soybeans, and mock duck made of mushrooms can all mimic traditional meats. Vegetarian burgers made out of black beans or quinoa also come close to the taste of beef burgers. Coconut bacon strips, eggplant bacon bits or tofu mighto; veggie hot dog made with seasoned and textured soy proteins; and faux poultry strips from wheat gluten are other tasty options.

Can children follow a plant based diet?

Due to their numerous health benefits, plant-based diets have become increasingly popular with adults. However, parents may wonder if a plant-based diet is safe for their children. Children can still eat a plant-based food plan if they are well-planned and meet their nutritional needs.

Children can get all the nutrients they need from plant-based diets. It is vital that children receive enough iron, calcium and vitamin D. For growth and development, protein is vital. Good plant-based sources of protein include beans and lentils, tofu and nuts. Iron is necessary for healthy blood cells and can be found in leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals. Fortified plant milk, calciumset tofu and leafy leaves contain sufficient calcium for healthy bones. Vitamin D is important for bone health and can be obtained from fortified plant milk and sunlight exposure. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for healthy nerves. It can be found only in animal products. A B12 supplement may be necessary for children who are on a plant-based food diet.

It is crucial that children who follow a plant-based lifestyle consume enough calories in order to meet their energy demands. Children should have access to a wide variety of whole foods including fruits, vegetables whole grains, legumes beans, nuts, seeds, and nuts. To meet their energy requirements, children may need to eat less or eat more often.

To make sure your child's nutrition is adequate, parents should consult a registered or licensed dietitian. They can help you plan meals, provide nutritional advice, and determine the right portion size for your child.

It is possible for children to safely eat a plant-based diet, provided it meets their nutritional needs. Parents can offer their children a nutritious and healthy plant-based meal plan with the help of a registered dietitian and a qualified healthcare professional.

Statistics

• According to research published, going plant-based can cut grocery bills by $750 a year per person, Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition. (forksoverknives.com)
• A study found that livestock provides just 18 percent of calories consumed globally but takes up 83 percent of farmland. (forksoverknives.com)

External Links

[TAG70]

• Diabetes

[TAG72]

• What is a plant diet? Should you try it? - Harvard Health

[TAG74]

• Weight Loss


• Plant-Based Diets & Omega-3 Fatty acid

[TAG77]

• Plant-Based Diets for Personal, Population, and Planetary Health - ScienceDirect

How To

How to deal with social situations when you are on a plant based diet

Transitioning to a plant diet is difficult. This includes social situations like eating out with friends. Be proactive before going out for dinner to ensure that you don't compromise your dietary preferences while still enjoying tasty meals. You should confirm which restaurant options you are interested in before going.

If the venue is suitable, start a conversation among friends and relatives about your preferences. This will avoid awkward conversations or misunderstandings about your dietary requirements. Have faith in the chef by trusting their judgment when crafting vegan dishes; chat with them if necessary so that they can better understand how to accommodate your needs best.

Make sure you are stocked up on healthy snacks and beverages that don't contain animal products before attending events. As your non-vegan relatives settle into incorporating vegan recipes over time, recognize even the smallest gestures made regarding a plant-based diet: after all, adjusting kitchen habits is an ongoing process.

Navigating social situations while sticking to a vegan diet may seem challenging initially. It becomes second-nature over time. So start small and have faith!

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