Focaccia with olives

Olive Focaccia – A Flavorful Delicacy

If you are looking for a recipe that brings the authentic taste of Mediterranean cuisine to your table, then olive focaccia is the perfect choice. This soft, aromatic, and fluffy bread is ideal for enjoying on its own or as an accompaniment to various dishes.

Moreover, focaccia is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for even the least experienced cooks to try. With a history spanning hundreds of years, focaccia was originally a staple bread for workers and has evolved into various versions over time. Whether served at a festive meal or as a snack, focaccia remains a versatile dish that you will surely love.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 400 g bread flour (choose a high-quality flour for better texture)
- 1.5 teaspoons sea salt (sea salt adds an intense flavor)
- 250 ml warm water (about 37°C, to activate the yeast)
- 100 g pitted olives (use a mix of green and black olives for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 1 packet dry yeast (about 7 g, Dr. Oetker is an excellent choice)
- 50 ml olive oil (choose a quality extra virgin oil for a perfect taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (gives a delicious aroma)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for a crunchy appearance)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (sliced, to add a touch of freshness)

Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt. Make sure to use a bowl large enough to allow the dough to rise. In another container, combine the yeast with the sugar and a cup of warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy – this is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to work.

Add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix well with a wooden spoon. Add the olive oil and dried basil. Here, I recommend using a wooden spoon, as it will not incorporate air into the dough. Once the ingredients are well combined, start kneading the dough with your hands for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but don’t overdo it to avoid affecting the final texture.

Once you have a beautiful dough, shape it into a ball and place it in a greased baking tray. Cover the tray with a damp towel and let it rise for 15 minutes in a warm place. This resting time is essential for developing flavors and texture.

After the dough has risen, gently stretch it with your fingers in the tray, forming an even surface. Use your fingers to create small holes in the dough, which will hold the olive oil and flavors. Brush the surface with olive oil, then let it rise for another 10 minutes.

Now comes the fun part! Place the olives in strategic spots on the dough, and the sliced tomatoes in the center. Sprinkle sea salt and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. These ingredients will not only add taste but will also transform the focaccia into a true visual feast.

Preheat the oven to 220°C (about 425°F). Once the oven is ready, bake the focaccia for 15-20 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside. The aroma that will fill your kitchen while baking is simply irresistible!

Once the focaccia is done, let it cool slightly before cutting. Served warm, alongside a tomato sauce or a yogurt dip, olive focaccia is a perfect snack for any occasion.

Serving suggestions:
- It can be enjoyed plain, with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavors.
- You can add feta or mozzarella cheese to transform the dish into a delicious appetizer.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other ingredients instead of olives?
Of course! You can add fresh herbs, caramelized onions, or even cheese for a personalized version.

2. How can I keep focaccia fresh?
You can cover it with plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep it longer, I recommend freezing it.

3. Is it possible to make focaccia with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour, but make sure to adjust the amount of water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Olive focaccia is rich in carbohydrates, providing quick energy, but also healthy fats from the olive oil. Olives are an excellent source of antioxidants and monounsaturated fats. This combination makes focaccia not only a delight but also a healthy option in your diet.

Possible variations:
- Add different types of cheese, such as parmesan or goat cheese.
- Experiment with various herbs, such as fresh rosemary or oregano, to diversify the flavors.

Now that you have discovered this delicious olive focaccia recipe, all that’s left is to showcase your culinary skills to friends and family. I look forward to you sharing the final result! Cook with love and joy!