Focaccia

Focaccia: The Italian Bread with Olive Oil and Thyme Flavor

If you're looking for a simple yet exceptionally delicious recipe that will fill your home with inviting aromas, you've come to the right place! Focaccia is a traditional Italian bread that not only impresses with its appearance but also with its wonderful taste. This recipe will transform every meal into a celebration, making it perfect alongside a plate of cheeses or as a base for sandwiches.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients:
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 500 g flour (preferably type 00 for a finer texture)
- 250 ml warm water
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon salt (plus salt for sprinkling)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh or dried thyme (to taste)

Before we begin, it is essential to ensure that the ingredients are of the highest quality. Extra virgin olive oil will make a significant difference in the final taste of your focaccia. Additionally, type 00 flour is ideal for achieving a soft and airy texture.

Step 1: Activating the yeast
In a large bowl, crumble the yeast cube and add 250 ml of warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, as it will kill the yeast. Gently stir until the yeast is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In the same bowl, add the flour and 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Mix with a spatula or your hands until a soft dough forms. If you feel the dough is too dry, you can add a little warm water until it reaches the desired consistency. Then, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil.

Step 3: Kneading
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. I recommend using the kneading technique: push the dough with your palms, then fold it and repeat. This will develop the gluten, giving it structure.

Step 4: Rising
Shape the dough into a rectangular form, then cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour. The dough should double in size. You can place it next to a radiator or in a preheated oven at 30°C (then turned off).

Step 5: Preheating the oven
While the dough is rising, preheat the oven to 230°C. Make sure it is well heated, as this will contribute to achieving a crispy crust.

Step 6: Shaping and flavoring
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a greased baking tray. Use your fingers to gently stretch it in the tray, forming dimples in the dough. These are not only aesthetic but also help retain the oil and flavors. Pour the remaining olive oil over the dough, sprinkle the remaining salt, and add thyme to taste.

Step 7: Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the focaccia for 10 minutes at 230°C. Then, reduce the temperature to 190°C and continue baking for 20 minutes. The focaccia should be golden and crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside.

Step 8: Cooling and serving
Once done, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly on a rack. You can serve it warm, alongside flavored olive oil or balsamic vinegar. It is delicious and simple, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

Serving suggestions:
Focaccia can be enjoyed plain, but for an unforgettable culinary experience, I recommend serving it with:
- Aged cheeses (e.g., parmesan or pecorino)
- Fresh tomatoes and basil
- Green or black olives
- A dry white wine

Possible variations:
- You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions to the dough for extra flavor.
- Instead of thyme, experiment with rosemary or oregano.
- Add feta or mozzarella on top for a richer version.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can focaccia be stored?
Yes, focaccia stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can warm it slightly before serving to restore its crispy texture.

2. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. About 7 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 25 g of fresh yeast. Add the dry yeast directly to the flour.

3. How many calories does a serving of focaccia have?
A serving of focaccia contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of olive oil used and optional additions.

Nutritional benefits:
Focaccia is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, contributing to heart health. Additionally, if you add fresh herbs, you benefit from extra antioxidants.

This focaccia recipe is not only a tasty choice but also an excellent way to bring a bit of Italian culinary culture into your kitchen. Enjoy every slice and savor the simple, natural flavors!