Deliciously Cheesy Focaccia di Recco Recipe
Have you ever heard of Focaccia di Recco? This delightful dish is a special type of focaccia that hails from the beautiful region of Liguria in Italy. It’s not just any bread; it’s a thin, crispy masterpiece filled with creamy cheese that makes your taste buds dance with joy!
Focaccia di Recco has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Traditionally, it was prepared by the fishermen of Recco, and over the years, it has become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine. Its unique combination of flavors and textures is why this dish is so popular. The way the crispy crust meets the gooey, melted cheese is simply irresistible.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 500g |
| Water | 250ml |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 60ml (plus extra for drizzling) |
| Salt | 10g |
| Fresh cheese (like crescenza or stracchino) | 300g |
| Fresh rosemary (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Pepper (optional) | To taste |
Feel free to substitute the cheese with any soft cheese you like, such as mozzarella or ricotta, if you can’t find crescenza.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the water and olive oil. Mix until you form a soft dough.
- Knead: Place the dough on a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rest: Put the kneaded dough in a bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). This high temperature will give your focaccia a crunchy crust.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling: While the dough is rising, crumble your fresh cheese into a bowl and mix it with a little pepper if desired.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it in half. Roll out one half into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Assemble: Place the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread your cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Roll out the second half of the dough and place it on top of the cheese.
- Poke & Drizzle: Use your fingers to poke holes all over the top of the dough. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary if you’re using it.
- Bake: Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 300 | 15% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 12g | 18% |
| Sodium | 500mg | 22% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cheese to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your focaccia while it bakes to avoid burning.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of garlic for extra flavor.
- Storage: Focaccia di Recco is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
FAQs
What is Focaccia di Recco?
Focaccia di Recco is a thin, crispy Italian focaccia filled with creamy cheese, originating from the town of Recco in Liguria.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute crescenza or stracchino cheese with mozzarella or ricotta if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover focaccia should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature and is best eaten within two days.
Can I make it without olive oil?
While olive oil adds flavor and keeps the focaccia moist, you can reduce the amount if needed, but it might not be as tasty!
How can I make it gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free flour. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the flour package for best results!
Is Focaccia di Recco vegan-friendly?
This recipe is not vegan due to the cheese, but you can use a plant-based cheese alternative to make it more suitable for a vegan diet.
How long does it take to make Focaccia di Recco?
From start to finish, it typically takes about 2 hours, including the rising time for the dough.
Can I freeze Focaccia di Recco?
Yes! You can freeze it after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last up to 3 months.
What can I serve with Focaccia di Recco?
It pairs well with salads, soups, or as a side dish to any Italian meal. You can also enjoy it on its own!
What makes Focaccia di Recco different from regular focaccia?
Unlike traditional focaccia, which is fluffy and topped with various ingredients, Focaccia di Recco is very thin and filled with cheese, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
Now that you know how to make this delicious dish, gather your ingredients and bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful experience of making and eating Focaccia di Recco!
