This Spring Onion Italian Focaccia is a delightful blend of savory spring onions and fluffy, golden focaccia bread. Perfect for any meal or as a tasty snack, this recipe brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. The combination of high-quality olive oil and fresh spring onions creates a fragrant and flavorful filling that complements the soft and airy dough.

Full Recipe:

 

Ingredients:

Makes one focaccia in a 14.5 x 9 inch (37 x 23 cm) baking tray

The Dough:

• 3 1/3 cups (500 g) High Gluten Flour or Bread Flour (Italian Manitoba flour)
• 1 1/2 tsp (7 g) Salt
• 1 tsp (4 g) Sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp (7 g) Active Dry Yeast
• About 1 1/3 cups (340 ml) Warm Water

The Filling:

• 1 1/2 pounds (700 g) Spring Onion
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Water
• Salt

Directions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Pour the flour into a large bowl. Add salt around the edge of the bowl.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the sugar and yeast into it.
3. Pour the warm water (not hot!) into the well and mix the yeast and sugar until dissolved.
4. Gradually mix in the flour from the edges until the water is absorbed and the dough has a sticky consistency.
5. Knead the dough for a few seconds in the bowl. Sprinkle some flour under and over the dough to prevent it from sticking.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for at least 3-4 hours.

Prepare the Filling:

1. Wash and cut the spring onions.
2. In a frying pan, add 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, salt, and some water.
3. Cook over high heat for about 15 minutes, until the spring onions are tender. Add water as needed to keep the spring onions from drying out.

Assemble the Focaccia:

1. Line the bottom of the baking tray with a layer of baking paper and grease it with some extra virgin olive oil.
2. Once the dough has risen, stretch it into a medium-thick rectangle.
3. Spread the stewed spring onions over the dough, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
4. Roll the dough into a log, then coil it into a spiral shape.
5. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking tray and stretch it with your hands. It’s okay if some filling comes out.
6. Cover and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes.

Bake the Focaccia:

1. Preheat the oven to 392°F (200°C).
2. Drizzle the top of the dough with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Spring Onion Italian Focaccia!

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Authentic Italian Flavor: This focaccia captures the essence of traditional Italian baking with simple, fresh ingredients.
2. Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack. It pairs well with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own.
3. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and ingredients, this recipe is accessible even for novice bakers.
4. Healthy Ingredients: Whole spring onions and high-quality olive oil provide nutritional benefits along with great taste.
5. Perfect for Sharing: This focaccia is great for gatherings and makes an impressive dish to share with family and friends.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Spring Onions:

• Rich in Vitamins: Spring onions are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K.
• Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Olive Oil:

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Extra virgin olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Antioxidants: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties.

High Gluten Flour:

• Protein-Rich: This type of flour provides a higher protein content, which helps in developing a better dough structure.

Cooking Tips

1. Water Temperature: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
2. Kneading: Knead the dough just enough to combine the ingredients and achieve a smooth texture.
3. Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise adequately for a fluffy and airy texture.
4. Spring Onion Filling: Keep the spring onions moist during cooking by adding water as needed to prevent drying out.

Customization Ideas

Flavor Variations:

• Cheesy: Add grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese to the filling for a cheesy twist.
• Herbed: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the dough or filling for added flavor.

Add-Ins:

• Garlic: Add minced garlic to the spring onion filling for an extra savory flavor.
• Olives: Mix in some chopped olives for a Mediterranean touch.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Dips: Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or a marinara sauce for dipping.
• As a Sandwich Base: Use slices of focaccia as a base for sandwiches with your favorite fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast. Substitute the same amount and mix it directly with the flour and other dry ingredients.

How do I store leftover focaccia? Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze it. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After kneading, cover and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature and rise before using.

What if I don’t have high gluten flour? You can use all-purpose flour, but the texture might be slightly less chewy. Adding a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten can help mimic the texture of high gluten flour.

Final Thoughts

This Spring Onion Italian Focaccia is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy homemade bread with an authentic Italian twist. The combination of fresh ingredients and easy preparation makes it a must-try recipe for any bread lover. Whether you’re serving it at a family meal or enjoying it as a snack, this focaccia is sure to impress. Happy baking!