In a large bowl, whisk together the water and active starter until combined. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will look sticky, but that’s exactly what you want for focaccia. This step sets the foundation for your sourdough focaccia recipe.

Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30–60 minutes. This resting period helps the flour fully absorb the water, making the dough easier to handle later in the sourdough focaccia recipe.

Over the next 1–2 hours, perform 2–3 sets of stretch and folds to strengthen the dough. To do this, lift one side of the dough, stretch it up, and fold it over itself. Rotate the bowl and repeat on all four sides. Each round only takes a minute but develops gluten strength without kneading—making this sourdough focaccia recipe truly beginner-friendly.

Let the dough rest at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until it’s noticeably puffy and airy. Bulk fermentation time may vary depending on the warmth of your kitchen, but it’s a crucial step in this sourdough focaccia recipe.

Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil into a 9×13 baking pan. Transfer the dough gently into the pan and stretch it slightly to fit the corners. Drizzle another tablespoon of oil over the top, cover, and let it proof for another 1–2 hours until bubbly. This is where your sourdough focaccia recipe starts to take shape.

With oiled fingertips, press deep dimples all over the dough. This creates the classic focaccia look while redistributing gas pockets for even baking. Add another drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt or toppings of your choice—this step adds the signature flavor to your sourdough focaccia recipe.

Preheat your oven to 450 °F (232 °C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, reducing to 425 °F (218 °C) if browning too quickly. The focaccia is ready when the edges are crisp, the top is golden brown, and the center springs back when pressed. That’s the finishing touch on this foolproof sourdough focaccia recipe.

Let your sourdough focaccia cool for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite meal.