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Focaccia Barese is a traditional Italian bread that hails from the region of Puglia. Known for its crispy crust and soft, airy interior, this focaccia is often topped with fresh tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, Focaccia Barese is not just delicious but also easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a stunning focaccia that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 350ml warm water
- 10g sea salt
- 10g sugar
- 7g active dry yeast
- 50ml extra virgin olive oil
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Black olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh rosemary
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sea salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Focaccia
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a greased baking tray and stretch it out gently with your fingers to fit the tray. Make dimples in the surface of the dough with your fingertips.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Top the focaccia with halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh rosemary. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the focaccia with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it puffs up slightly.
Step 7: Bake the Focaccia
Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
FAQs
What is Focaccia Barese?
Focaccia Barese is a traditional Italian flatbread from the Puglia region, characterized by its crispy crust and soft interior, often topped with tomatoes and olives.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might need to adjust the water content accordingly.
How should I store leftover Focaccia Barese?
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze.
Can I add different toppings to Focaccia Barese?
Absolutely! You can customize your focaccia with various toppings such as herbs, cheeses, or roasted vegetables according to your taste.
How do I reheat Focaccia Barese?
To reheat, place the focaccia in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
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