Flavored Focaccia

Herbed Focaccine: A Delicious and Simple Focaccia Recipe

Focaccia is a type of Italian bread known for its soft, flavorful, and slightly crispy texture. This herbed focaccine recipe is perfect for serving as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a base for sandwiches. Additionally, it is a quick and simple recipe, ideal for cooking enthusiasts who want to impress with a homemade dish.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 180 ml milk
- 7 g dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 160 g wheat flour (whole wheat flour can also be used for a more intense flavor)
- 300 g bread flour (with a higher protein content)
- 10 g salt
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- Herbs (rosemary, oregano, or thyme) to taste
- Coarse salt for sprinkling on top

Preparation:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, warm 180 ml of milk until it is lukewarm but not hot. Add the dry yeast and honey. Gently mix and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This process will activate the yeast, ensuring a fluffy bread.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the 160 g of flour with the activated yeast mixture. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the dough to grow.

3. Adding ingredients: Once the dough has risen, add the 300 g of bread flour, salt, and 50 ml of olive oil. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes elastic. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Kneading: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. A good technique is to push the dough with your palm and fold it, repeating this process.

5. Second rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover it again with a clean towel and let it rise for 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.

6. Shaping the focaccine: Preheat the oven to 220°C. On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, stretch the dough with your fingers, forming an even surface. Gently score the dough with your fingers to create small indentations.

7. Seasoning: Drizzle the focaccia with olive oil, sprinkle with coarse salt, and add the desired herbs. This will be the moment when your focaccia will take on an irresistible aroma.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden and crispy on the surface.

9. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the focaccia cool on a rack for a few minutes. Cut it into pieces and serve warm, alongside cheeses, olives, or fresh vegetables.

Serving suggestions and variations: You can add green or black olives to the dough for a more intense flavor or sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of sweetness. Additionally, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar on top will add a surprising flavor.

Herbed focaccine is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique version of focaccia!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour, 280 g full-fat milk, 1 egg, 10 g salt, 10 g sugar, 20 g olive oil, 10 g fresh yeast, 1/2 teaspoon honey, a large tablespoon of herbs (I used sage, thyme, rosemary). BRINE: 3 g coarse salt, 8 g boiling water, 8 g olive oil.