Focaccia with cherry, basil, and pancetta

Name: Focaccia with cherry, basil, and pancetta - Oana B.
Ingredients: 500g flour; 1 tablespoon basil; 1/2 teaspoon sugar; 2 teaspoons dry yeast; 2 tablespoons salt; 325 ml lukewarm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; .............................; 400g cherry tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; salt; pepper; 200g pancetta diced; 2 tablespoons basil

Doughs and pastries - Focaccia with cherry, basil, and pancetta by Oana B. - Recipia

Focaccia with cherry tomatoes, basil, and pancetta Who doesn't love a piece of warm, soft, and aromatic focaccia? This recipe for focaccia with cherry tomatoes, basil, and pancetta is perfect for bringing a touch of joy to any meal, whether it's a lunch with friends, a family dinner, or even a romantic date. Focaccia is a type of Italian bread, known for its fluffy texture and delicious aroma. Over time, this recipe has been adapted in countless ways, but the combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and salty pancetta is certainly one of the most beloved. Preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Baking time: 45 minutes Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes Number of servings: 8 servings Ingredients For the dough: - 500 g wheat flour - 1 tablespoon dried basil - ½ teaspoon sugar - 2 teaspoons dry yeast - 2 tablespoons salt - 325 ml warm water - 2 tablespoons olive oil For the topping: - 400 g cherry tomatoes - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 200 g pancetta diced - 2 tablespoons fresh basil (or dried if unavailable) Instructions 1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, dried basil, sugar, yeast, and salt. It is important not to add the salt directly over the yeast, as it can inhibit the yeast's activity. Mix the dry ingredients well to distribute them evenly. 2. Adding the liquids: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the warm water and the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients combine and form a soft dough. 3. Kneading: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes on a lightly floured work surface until it becomes elastic and smooth. It is essential to achieve a uniform texture, which will lead to a fluffy focaccia. 4. First rise: Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough in it, covering it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. 5. Preparing the tomatoes: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 140°C. Place the cherry tomatoes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, add a tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake them for 30 minutes until they become soft and aromatic. This step will enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes and add a delicious note to the focaccia. 6. Preparing the focaccia dough: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down for a minute to release the air. Grease a 40x30 cm baking tray with olive oil and transfer the dough to the tray. Spread it evenly, turning it on both sides to coat it with oil. 7. Shaping the focaccia: Use your fingers to make deep indentations in the dough, ensuring they are deep but not reaching the bottom of the tray. These indentations will help absorb the flavors. 8. Adding the toppings: Place the roasted tomatoes and diced pancetta on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for added flavor. Let the focaccia rise for another 10 minutes. 9. Baking: Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy around the edges. 10. Finishing and serving: Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and fresh basil on top. Serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a cheese platter. It is also perfect for serving as an appetizer. Useful tips - Flour: Use type 00 flour for the best texture. It has a higher protein content, which helps develop gluten, providing a fluffy consistency. - Yeast: Make sure the yeast is fresh. Test it by placing it in a bowl of warm water with a little sugar; if it bubbles after a few minutes, it is active. - Tomatoes: You can substitute cherry tomatoes with regular tomatoes, diced, but cherry offers a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with pancetta. - Variations: Add green or black olives, feta cheese, or even chili peppers for a spicy kick. Focaccia can be easily adapted based on personal preferences. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use fresh yeast. Replace 2 teaspoons of dry yeast with about 20 g of fresh yeast dissolved in warm water. 2. How can I store focaccia? Focaccia stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it for later consumption; just make sure to wrap it well. 3. What drinks pair well with focaccia? Focaccia pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a light beer. Additionally, a refreshing iced tea with lemon can be a great choice. In conclusion, this recipe for focaccia with cherry tomatoes, basil, and pancetta offers an unforgettable culinary experience, full of flavors and delicious textures. Preparing it is not only a pleasant activity but also an opportunity to bring people together around the table. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy every step of this delightful recipe!

Category: Doughs and pastries Author: Oana B. Views: 1 Date: 05.10.2024

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Doughs and pastries - Focaccia with cherry, basil, and pancetta by Oana B. - Recipia 1

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