Focaccia for a kilogram of flour

Delicious Focaccia: An Unforgettable Culinary Experience

When it comes to bread, nothing compares to the aroma and texture of freshly baked focaccia. This focaccia recipe is simple yet full of flavor, perfect to enjoy as an appetizer or a side dish. Focaccia is a traditional bread that has won the hearts of many due to its versatility. By using simple yet quality ingredients, you will achieve an impressive result. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 7 g of dry yeast (or 25 g of fresh yeast)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt (about 6-7 g)
- 375 ml of lukewarm water (not hot)
- 500 g of flour (choose a high-quality flour)
- 30 ml of olive oil

For the topping:
- 125 g of pitted olives, to taste
- 100 ml of extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- 10 cherry tomatoes
- Sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme
- 30-50 g of grated parmesan
- Optional: 1 red onion, 1 red bell pepper, a leek, fresh basil

Preparation:

1. Activating the yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 100 ml of lukewarm water and add the sugar. Let the mixture sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour the activated yeast mixture into the hole. Add the remaining lukewarm water and olive oil. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a smooth dough.

3. Kneading:
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. It's important to take your time with this process, as proper kneading will help develop the gluten, resulting in a fluffy focaccia.

4. Rising:
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Preparing the baking pan:
Grease a baking pan with olive oil, making sure the edges are covered. Then, transfer the risen dough to the pan and gently press it with your fingers to shape it as desired.

6. Adding the topping:
Once the dough is placed in the pan, brush it with olive oil on top. Add the olives, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sprigs of rosemary or thyme, and grated parmesan. Feel free to be creative by adding other favorite ingredients like red bell pepper or leek.

7. Second rising:
Let the focaccia rise for another 35-45 minutes, covered with a towel, while you preheat the oven to 190-200°C.

8. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the focaccia for 35-45 minutes, or until it is golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread in the kitchen will pamper you!

9. Cooling:
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a rack. You can cut it after it has cooled slightly. It is perfect to be served warm or at room temperature.

Serving suggestions:
This focaccia is wonderful both as an appetizer and as a base for sandwiches. You can serve it with a smoked mackerel spread, chopped capers, pomegranate sauce, and a little lemon juice for a savory combination. Arrange the plate with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an elegant look.

Practical tips:
- Use high-quality flour for a better texture focaccia.
- Fresh yeast is preferable, but dry yeast is an excellent and easier-to-store alternative.
- Play with the toppings! You can add cheeses, vegetables, or your favorite herbs.
- If you want a fluffier focaccia, you can add a little yogurt to the dough.

Nutritional benefits:
Focaccia is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. The use of extra virgin olive oil brings healthy fatty acids and antioxidants, benefiting the heart and circulatory system.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I keep focaccia fresh?
Focaccia keeps best in a paper bag at room temperature. You can reheat it in the oven or toaster before serving.
- Can I freeze focaccia?
Yes, focaccia can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start making this delicious focaccia! Whether you enjoy it with family or serve it at a gathering with friends, it is sure to be a guaranteed success. Enjoy!