This Cheesy Garlic and Herb Focaccia is a delightful bread that combines the flavors of garlic, basil, parsley, black olives, and mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. The bread is soft on the inside with a slightly crispy crust, topped with delicious cheese and herbs, making it a hit at any gathering.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 20g yeast
- 250ml water
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 450g flour
- 100ml olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Basil, chopped
- Parsley, chopped
- Black olives, sliced
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine 20g yeast, 250ml warm water, 2 tbsp flour, and 1/2 tsp sugar. Mix well.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, add 450g flour.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and mix well.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and leave it in a warm place for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- In a small bowl, combine 100ml olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, chopped basil, and parsley.
- Assemble the Focaccia:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (392°F).
- Spread the risen dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pressing it out to form a rectangle or oval shape.
- Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
- Brush the garlic and herb olive oil mixture over the dough.
- Sprinkle sliced black olives and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before cutting into pieces.
- Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of cheese, garlic, and herbs.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Enjoy alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the water for the yeast is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Press the dough out evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to suit your taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Garlic: Rich in antioxidants and offers various health benefits.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Mozzarella: Provides calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s flavorful and easy to make.
- The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile and can be served as a side, appetizer, or snack.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Garlic and Herb Focaccia is a delightful bread that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and soft texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious focaccia with your friends and family!