Fougasse with red onion, cherry tomatoes, and seeds

Fougasse with red onion, cherry tomatoes, and seeds: a rustic and flavorful delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Fougasse is a type of French bread, similar to focaccia, that can be customized with a variety of ingredients. This recipe with red onion, cherry tomatoes, and seeds will bring a touch of freshness to your plate, perfect to be served as an appetizer or alongside a delicious soup. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 500 g wheat flour (preferably type 00 for a finer texture)
- 300 ml lukewarm water (about 37°C)
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 50 g sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds (or any other seeds you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (optional)

Instructions:

1. We start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step to ensure the yeast is active.

2. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix with a spatula or your hands until a dough forms.

3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and begin kneading for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

4. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Once the dough has risen, transfer it to the work surface and gently push it down to release the air. Roll out the dough into a rectangular shape, about 1 cm thick. Using a knife or dough cutter, make deep cuts in a cross or diamond shape to create a decorative pattern.

6. Evenly distribute the slices of red onion and halved cherry tomatoes over the surface of the dough, pressing gently to secure them. Sprinkle sesame and pumpkin seeds on top, and if desired, dried oregano for an extra flavor.

7. Cover the fougasse with a towel and let it rise again for 20-30 minutes, while preheating the oven to 220°C.

8. Bake the fougasse for 20-25 minutes until it is golden and crispy. It is recommended to place a tray of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam, which will help achieve a crunchier crust.

9. Once baked, remove the fougasse from the oven and let it cool on a rack. It is absolutely delicious served warm, alongside flavored olive oil or fresh cheese.

Practical tips:

- You can substitute cherry tomatoes with olives, peppers, or even cheese for a savory variation.
- If you want a slightly spicy flavor, add some chopped chili pepper to the filling.
- Fougasse keeps well for a few days in an airtight container, but it is best enjoyed freshly baked.

This recipe for fougasse with red onion, cherry tomatoes, and seeds is not only easy to make but will also bring a splash of beauty to your table. Get ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to a special bread, full of flavor and aroma!