Recco focaccia with cheese, or Focaccia di Recco al formaggio as it’s called in Italian, is a simple yet satisfying dish. It’s essentially a thin and crispy dough filled with melted cheese, often referred to as the “queen” of all focaccias. The traditional cheese used for Recco focaccia is stracchino, a type of soft and creamy cheese that pairs perfectly with the crispy dough.
What makes Recco focaccia truly unique is the dough used to make it. Unlike traditional focaccia, which is soft and fluffy, Recco focaccia is thin and crispy, similar to a pizza crust. The dough is rolled out and filled with the cheese before being baked in a wood-fired oven until golden brown. The result is a heavenly combination of crispy dough and creamy cheese that melts in your mouth.
Recco focaccia is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven. The cheese inside is gooey and molten, and the crust is still warm and crispy. It’s one of those foods that can be enjoyed any time of the day, whether as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. It’s also perfect for sharing with friends or family, as everyone can tear off a piece to enjoy.
Recco focaccia is a local specialty in Liguria, and it’s not uncommon to find small bakeries and street vendors selling it in the villages along the coast. However, not all Recco focaccias are created equal, and it’s important to know where to find the best one.
For the ultimate Recco focaccia experience, head to the village of Recco itself. There are several bakeries and restaurants in the village that specialize in Recco focaccia, including the famous Manuelina Focacceria. This family-run bakery has been making Recco focaccia since 1826 and is widely considered to be the best in town.
At Manuelina Focacceria, you can watch the bakers roll out the dough and fill it with cheese before it’s baked in their wood-fired oven. The aroma of freshly baked Recco focaccia fills the air, and you can see the locals coming in to buy their daily dose of this delicious treat.
One bite of Manuelina’s Recco focaccia will transport you to the hillsides of Liguria, with the salty sea breeze and the taste of freshly baked bread. The cheese inside is creamy and rich, while the crust is delicate and crispy. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and you’ll understand why Recco focaccia is a beloved local specialty.
Recco focaccia with cheese is a dish that must be experienced for anyone who loves Italian food. It’s simple yet elegant, and it captures the essence of Ligurian cuisine perfectly. So, the next time you visit Italy, remember to visit the small village of Recco and indulge in the queen of all focaccias.