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For the Dough:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 10g active dry yeast
- 300ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
For the Toppings:
- Fresh rosemary (or thyme, oregano, or sage)
- Coarse sea salt
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Red onions, thinly sliced (optional)
- Zucchini, thinly sliced (optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
How to Make Farmer’s Focaccia
- Prepare the Dough:
- Start by activating the yeast. In a bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir until the yeast dissolves and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
- Stir until the dough begins to come together, then knead it on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet or a round baking pan and stretch it out with your fingers to fit the pan’s shape.
- Let the dough rest for another 10 minutes to rise slightly.
- Add the Toppings:
- Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the dough. Use your fingers to create little dimples all over the surface of the bread. This classic technique not only gives the focaccia its signature look but also helps the oil and flavors seep into the bread.
- Scatter fresh rosemary or your preferred herbs over the dough. If using vegetables, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, onion slices, and zucchini on top. Sprinkle coarse sea salt for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil on top to ensure a golden, crisp crust.
- Bake and Serve:
- Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crisp on the edges. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking.
- Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Why Farmer’s Focaccia Stands the Test of Time
The beauty of Farmer’s Focaccia lies not just in its simplicity but in its connection to the past. Focaccia has been a part of Italian culinary history for centuries, with regional variations reflecting the availability of local ingredients. For farmers in the rural areas of Italy, this bread was a way to make use of leftover dough, and they would often top it with whatever fresh produce they had on hand. The result is a rustic, humble bread that brings out the flavors of the land.
The Farmer’s Focaccia recipe exemplifies this tradition, offering a delicious, satisfying bread that combines the earthiness of herbs and vegetables with the richness of olive oil. Each bite reminds us of the importance of tradition, of the connection between food and place, and the joy of sharing a meal made with simple, fresh ingredients.
The Versatility of Farmer’s Focaccia
One of the great things about Farmer’s Focaccia is its versatility. You can customize the toppings to reflect the seasons, adding fresh tomatoes and basil in the summer or root vegetables and garlic in the fall. It pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or a simple salad, making it an ideal side dish for any meal. Alternatively, you can serve it as an appetizer at gatherings or slice it up for a light lunch or snack.
Whether you enjoy it as a stand-alone treat or with a savory dish, Farmer’s Focaccia is a celebration of the flavors of tradition and the bounty of the earth. It’s a recipe that brings together the essence of Italian home cooking: simple, fresh, and full of heart.
Final Thoughts
Farmer’s Focaccia is more than just a bread—it’s a celebration of tradition and a reflection of the landscape that inspired it. With its golden crust, fragrant herbs, and generous toppings, this rustic focaccia offers a delicious and satisfying experience with every bite. So, next time you’re in the mood for something homemade and full of flavor, turn to this timeless recipe and enjoy a little slice of Italy in your own kitchen.
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