Italian > Baked Goods > Focaccia Bread

Focaccia con Bastone Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let the dough rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
6. Grease a baking sheet with olive oil and line with parchment paper.
7. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and flatten it with your hands.
8. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chopped rosemary over the dough.
9. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown.
10. Let the focaccia cool before cutting into slices.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 8 slices

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 140
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: whole wheat flour, spelt flour, or gluten-free flour
- Parmesan cheese: nutritional yeast, vegan Parmesan cheese, or vegan cheese
- Italian seasoning: oregano, basil, or thyme
- Rosemary: thyme, oregano, or basil

Variations:
- Add other herbs and spices to the focaccia, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes.
- Add other toppings to the focaccia, such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, when adding it to the dough.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a light and fluffy focaccia.
- Let the focaccia cool completely before slicing.

Storage Instructions:
Store the focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the focaccia in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the focaccia with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Slice the focaccia into small squares and serve as an appetizer.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes

Pairings:
- Tomato and mozzarella salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled fish

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Sauteed greens
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the focaccia is too dense, add a bit more warm water to the dough.
- If the focaccia is too dry, add a bit more olive oil to the dough.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Wash your hands before and after handling the dough.

Food History:
Focaccia is an Italian flatbread that dates back to ancient Roman times. It is believed to have originated in the region of Liguria, Italy.

Flavor Profiles:
The focaccia has a savory flavor with hints of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and rosemary.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the focaccia as a side dish with pasta or soup.
- Slice the focaccia into small pieces and serve as an appetizer.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Herby, Aromatic, Garlicky, Cheesy