Focaccia is a beloved Italian bread known for its crispy outer layer and soft, flavorful interior. One of the most iconic varieties is the Focaccia col Formaggio di Recco Igp, hailing from the beautiful region of Liguria. This dish is particularly unique, as it is filled with a gooey cheese that melts to perfection. Below, I’m sharing a delightful recipe to create this savory bread that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Focaccia col Formaggio di Recco Igp
This focaccia is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this classic dish, beginning with the essential ingredients and straightforward instructions to guide you through the process.
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 10g sea salt
- 300ml lukewarm water
- 30ml extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 200g stracchino cheese (or another soft cheese like crescenza)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sea salt. Mix them well to ensure even distribution.
- Gradually add the lukewarm water and olive oil, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Roll out one piece on a floured surface into a thin rectangular shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Transfer the rolled dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the stracchino cheese evenly over the surface, and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.
- Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the cheese. Seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers.
- Using your fingertips, poke dimples all over the surface of the focaccia. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into squares.
- Serve warm, drizzled with additional olive oil, and enjoy this delightful Italian treat!
This Focaccia col Formaggio di Recco Igp is a wonderful companion to any meal or can be enjoyed as a snack on its own. The rich, creamy cheese combined with the texture of the focaccia creates a truly unforgettable dish that brings the essence of Italy right to your kitchen.