How to Make Fougasse: Rustic French Flatbread Recipe

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction: What Is Fougasse?

Fougasse is a traditional French flatbread originating from Provence. Often shaped to resemble a leaf or an ear of wheat, fougasse is known for its crisp crust, chewy interior, and beautiful appearance. It’s the French cousin of Italian focaccia and is typically flavoured with olives, herbs, garlic, or cheese.

In this post, you'll learn how to make fougasse at home using simple ingredients and British kitchen staples. Whether you want to impress guests with an artisan-style bread or enjoy a rustic snack with dips, fougasse is an excellent choice.

---

Ingredients for Two Medium Fougasse Loaves

500g strong white bread flour

7g sachet fast-action dried yeast

10g fine sea salt

325ml lukewarm water

2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)

1 tsp dried herbes de Provence or mixed herbs

Optional: 50g pitted olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or grated cheese

---

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl

Dough scraper or knife

Baking trays

Baking parchment

Pastry brush

Sharp knife or kitchen scissors

Clean tea towel or cling film

---

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Fougasse

---

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. In a jug, combine the lukewarm water, yeast, and olive oil. Pour the wet mixture into the flour and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead by hand for 10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5–6 minutes until the dough is soft, smooth, and slightly sticky.

---

Step 2: First Rise (Proving)

Form the dough into a ball, lightly oil the bowl, and place the dough inside. Cover with cling film or a damp tea towel. Leave to rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

---

Step 3: Add Flavourings (Optional)

Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently press in any additions like chopped olives, herbs, garlic, or cheese. Knead lightly to distribute.

---

Step 4: Divide and Shape

Cut the dough in half to make two loaves. Flatten each piece into a rough oval or triangle about 1.5cm thick. Place on baking parchment-lined trays.

Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, make cuts in the dough to form a leaf shape: one central cut down the middle and several diagonal cuts on either side. Gently stretch the cuts open to maintain the shape as the dough rises and bakes.

---

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the loaves loosely with oiled cling film or a tea towel. Let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until slightly puffed.

---

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/Gas Mark 7. Place a baking stone or tray inside to heat up (this helps achieve a crisp crust).

---

Step 7: Bake the Fougasse

Brush the loaves lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt or extra herbs. Slide the parchment directly onto the preheated tray or stone.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. The loaves should sound hollow when tapped underneath.

---

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Transfer to a wire rack and let cool slightly. Fougasse is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

---

Serving Suggestions

Appetiser: Tear and dip into olive oil and balsamic vinegar

Side Dish: Serve alongside soups, stews, or salads

Picnic: Great for sharing with cheeses, pâtés, or cured meats

Snack: Enjoy on its own, warm from the oven

---

Tips for the Perfect Fougasse

Shape artistically: The signature leaf shape is traditional, but you can customise with your own pattern.

Stretch the slits well: This prevents the dough from closing during baking.

Use steam (optional): Placing a tray of water in the oven can help create a crispier crust.

Try different flavours: Add rosemary, thyme, black olives, caramelised onions, or blue cheese.

---

Storage Advice

Best eaten the same day, while still slightly warm.

Store in a bread bag or wrap in foil for up to 2 days.

Refresh in a warm oven for 5 minutes before serving.

Can be frozen for up to 1 month—reheat directly from frozen.

---

Conclusion: Bake Like a Provençal Artisan

Now you know how to make fougasse, you can bring a taste of southern France to your kitchen. This elegant yet rustic flatbread is surprisingly easy to make and adds flair to any meal. Whether you keep it plain or load it with Mediterranean ingredients, fougasse is sure to become a favourite.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, experiment with shapes, toppings, and fillings to make it your own.

---

How to make fougasse

Traditional French flatbread recipe

Homemade fougasse bread UK

Leaf-shaped French bread recipe

Fougasse recipe with olives and herbs

Rustic bread for sharing

---

Learn how to make fougasse – a rustic French flatbread shaped like a leaf – with this easy recipe using British ingredients. Perfect for sharing, dipping, or serving alongside meals.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.