Focaccia di Recco: A Delicious Italian Delight

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Time to Stand: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Approximately $10-$15 (depending on the choice of cheese)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Appetizer or Snack
• Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, kitchen scale (optional)
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #focacciadirecco  here 

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water
• 10g (1 teaspoon) salt
• 30ml (2 tablespoons) extra virgin olive oil
• 1g (½ teaspoon) active dry yeast (optional, for a slightly thicker crust)

For the Filling:

• 250g (9 oz) stracchino cheese (or mozzarella)
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
• Fresh herbs (optional): rosemary or thyme for added flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #focacciadirecco  here 

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. If using yeast, dissolve it in warm water before adding it to the flour mixture. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the flour.
2. Knead the Dough: Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This step is optional but can improve texture.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Divide the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out one part into a thin rectangle on a floured surface (about 1-2mm thick).
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the rolled dough onto the sheet.

Step 3: Add the Filling

1. Spread the Cheese: Crumble the stracchino cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Roll the Second Dough: Roll out the second part of the dough into a rectangle of the same size. Carefully place it over the cheese layer, pinching the edges to seal tightly.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
2. Create Air Holes: Use your fingers to create small dimples all over the top dough layer, which allows steam to escape and gives the focaccia its signature look.
3. Drizzle and Season: Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs if desired.
4. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

• Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or artichokes to the cheese filling.
• Herbed Focaccia: Mix chopped fresh herbs into the dough for added flavor.
• Meat Lovers: Add thin slices of prosciutto or salami between the layers of cheese.
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #focacciadirecco  here 

Tips and Substitutions

• Cheese Alternatives: If stracchino isn’t available, use mozzarella or ricotta for a different texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it has a binding agent.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese for a vegan version of this dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~300
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Dough Too Sticky: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour while kneading.
• Cheese Leaking: Make sure the edges are well-sealed before baking to prevent the cheese from leaking out.