To start, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need 500 grams of all-purpose flour, 7 grams of instant yeast, 10 grams of salt, 300 milliliters of lukewarm water, and a generous amount of olive oil. Additionally, prepare your choice of savory toppings. Popular options include cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, olives, caramelized onions, cheese (such as mozzarella, feta, or parmesan), and prosciutto.
Begin by mixing the flour, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add the lukewarm water while stirring continuously until a sticky dough forms. Once the ingredients are well combined, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for around 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Next, place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for approximately 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Meanwhile, prepare your desired savory toppings. If using vegetables, slice them thinly and set them aside. If using cheese or cured meats, shred or cut them into bite-sized pieces. This step allows you to customize your focaccia to suit your preferences.
Once the dough has risen, lightly grease a baking sheet or a rectangular baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the dough onto the greased surface and gently stretch it to fit the shape of the pan. Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes and then try again.
Once the dough is evenly spread out, brush the surface with a generous amount of olive oil. This step not only adds flavor but also helps create a crisp crust. Sprinkle the desired savory toppings over the surface, making sure to distribute them evenly.
To further enhance the flavor, consider adding additional seasonings like dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, or minced garlic. Be creative and experiment with different combinations of ingredients to tailor the focaccia to your taste.
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the pan with the prepared focaccia into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Once the savory focaccia is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together, making the bread even more delicious.
Serve the savory focaccia as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes such as soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own. The richness of the ingredients and the softness of the bread create a delightful combination that will surely impress your family and friends.
In conclusion, making a savory focaccia is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prefer a classic combination of cheese and tomatoes or want to experiment with different toppings, a savory focaccia is a versatile and delightful addition to any meal.