Garlic and Parmesan Focaccia

Name: Garlic and Parmesan Focaccia - Ioana F.
Ingredients: 500 g flour; 300 ml warm water; 50 ml olive oil + 3 tablespoons; 1/2 teaspoon salt; basil; rosemary; oregano; grated parmesan; sprigs of rosemary for decoration; 3 cloves of garlic; 1 packet of dry yeast

Pasta/Pizza - Garlic and Parmesan Focaccia by Ioana F. - Recipia

Garlic and Parmesan Focaccia: A Flavorful Indulgence for Any Occasion Focaccia is more than just bread; it's a culinary experience that brings together the perfect flavors and textures, turning every bite into a celebration of taste. This garlic and parmesan focaccia recipe is perfect for serving as an appetizer, a side dish to a main meal, or simply as a delicious snack. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, yielding 8 servings of fluffy and aromatic focaccia. Ingredients - 500 grams of flour - 300 ml lukewarm water - 50 ml olive oil + 3 tablespoons for topping - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 grams) - 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped - Dried basil, to taste - Dried rosemary, to taste (plus a few sprigs for decoration) - Oregano, to taste - Coarse salt, for sprinkling on top - Grated parmesan, for topping Preparation Time - Preparation time: 15 minutes - Rising time: 1 hour - Baking time: 20-25 minutes - Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes Steps to Achieve Perfect Focaccia 1. Prepare the Dough In a large bowl, mix the flour with 250 ml of lukewarm water. Set aside the remaining water in a kettle for later use. Add the salt to the edge of the bowl—it's important not to mix it directly with the yeast, as salt can inhibit its activity. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the flour, followed by 50 ml of olive oil and a quarter teaspoon of dried rosemary. 2. Knead the Dough Start kneading the dough by hand until all the ingredients are well combined and you achieve a smooth consistency. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as this could result in a dense focaccia. 3. Let the Dough Rise Grease the dough with a little olive oil and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes. If you prefer, you can score the dough deeply in a cross shape to allow air to circulate and give it a rustic look. 4. Shape the Focaccia Once the dough has risen, greasing your hands with oil, carefully stretch it onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use your fingers to make deep holes in the dough, reaching the bottom of the tray. These holes will allow the oil and flavors to penetrate during baking, creating a delicious texture. 5. Prepare the Topping In a small bowl, mix 50 ml of lukewarm water with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of coarse salt, the chopped garlic, basil, oregano, and rosemary. This mixture will add a rich layer of flavor to the focaccia. 6. Add the Flavors Pour the oil and spice mixture over the shaped dough. Let it rise for another 15 minutes, during which you can preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. 7. Finalize and Bake Before placing the focaccia in the oven, sprinkle grated parmesan over the entire surface. Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until it is beautifully golden brown. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be simply irresistible! 8. Serve Once the focaccia is baked, you can garnish it with a few fresh sprigs of rosemary for an elegant touch. Serve it warm, alongside a tomato sauce or a fresh salad, and enjoy every bite. Practical Tips - Flour: Choose type 00 flour for a finer texture, but regular flour will work perfectly. - Olive oil: The quality of the olive oil influences the final taste; opt for extra virgin oil for the best results. - Salt: Use sea salt for a more sophisticated flavor. - Vegan Option: You can replace the parmesan with a mix of nuts and nutritional yeast for a delicious vegan version. - Finding the Ideal Rising Spot: If you don't have a warm place, you can preheat the oven to 50 degrees Celsius, then turn it off and place the covered dough inside to rise. Nutritional Benefits Focaccia is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. The addition of garlic not only enhances the flavor but also brings health benefits, having antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, which can contribute to heart health. Frequently Asked Questions - Can focaccia be frozen? Yes, you can freeze focaccia after baking. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then place it in a plastic bag to prevent drying out. - How can I customize the recipe? Replace rosemary with herbes de Provence or add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese for a more sophisticated variation. - What drinks pair well with focaccia? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light craft beer pairs perfectly with the flavors of focaccia. Conclusion Garlic and parmesan focaccia is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will impress any guest. It's easy to make and can be customized according to your preferences. Try serving it warm, alongside a dip or a salad, and let yourself be carried away by its delightful aromas. Enjoy!

Garlic and Parmesan Focaccia

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