Get A Taste Of Italy With This Easy Focaccia Recipe

Focaccia is a type of Italian flatbread that is usually baked in a large, shallow pan and topped with herbs, oil, and sometimes cheese or other ingredients. It is often served as an appetizer or a side dish, but it can also be used as a base for sandwiches or as a pizza-like topping.

Brief History Of Focaccia

The origins of focaccia can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was made with a simple mixture of flour, water, and salt. It was originally used as a cheap and convenient way for Roman soldiers to carry their food, as the bread could be easily wrapped around other ingredients or eaten on its own.

Over the centuries, focaccia has evolved and become a popular bread in many parts of Italy. In the Middle Ages, it was often served to peasants as a cheap and filling food, and it was also used as a base for other dishes, such as pizzas. In the modern era, focaccia has become a more upscale food, and it is often served as an appetizer or a side dish in restaurants and at special events.

Focaccia is now enjoyed around the world, and it is made in many different variations, depending on the region and the personal preferences of the baker. Some common toppings include herbs, cheese, olives, onions, and tomatoes, and the bread is often drizzled with olive oil or brushed with garlic butter before serving. No matter how it is prepared, focaccia remains a beloved and enduring part of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients To Make Focaccia

• 2 1/2 cups (315 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil, plus more for the pan
• Coarse salt, for topping (optional)

Step By Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add the lukewarm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or a large, shallow baking pan.
5. Punch down the dough, and transfer it to the prepared pan. Use your fingers to press the dough out into an even layer, making dimples all over the surface.
6. Brush the top of the focaccia with a little more olive oil, and sprinkle with coarse salt, if using.
7. Bake the focaccia for 15-20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and puffed.
8. Remove the focaccia from the oven, and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Recipe Tip

Here is a recipe tip for the traditional focaccia recipe:

To add extra flavor to the focaccia, try mixing in some herbs or other ingredients to the dough before baking. Some options might include minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or basil), olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or grated cheese. You can also try topping the focaccia with additional herbs or cheese before baking, or drizzling it with flavored oil (such as truffle oil or chili oil) after it comes out of the oven. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavors!

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