Focaccia di Recco

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy, yet tender bread that oozes with delectable cheese.

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Focaccia di Recco
Prep
40 min
Cook
15 min
Total
1 hr 55 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. In the work bowl of a large stand mixer, place the flour.

  2. Add both amounts of water, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt to the flour.

  3. Mix the dough using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed until it forms a ball on the dough hook. This should take about 5 to 6 minutes. The dough should be soft and elastic, but not sticky.

  4. Turn the dough out onto a work surface and shape it into a ball.

  5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it stand at room temperature for 1 hour.

  6. Lightly grease a quarter-sheet baking pan with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and sprinkle it with cornmeal.

  7. Dust a work surface lightly with flour.

  8. Move the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 500 degrees F (260 degrees C).

  9. Unwrap the dough and cut it into quarters.

  10. Pat each quarter of dough out on the floured work surface to a roughly rectangular shape.

  11. Roll out one piece of dough to about 3/8 inch thick, maintaining the rough rectangle shape, until the dough is about 6x8 inches.

  12. Lift the dough with well-floured hands and gently stretch it, rotating as you go, until the dough is almost large enough to fit over the prepared sheet pan.

  13. Pull and stretch the dough so that it

About this recipe

Focaccia di Recco: A Delightful Italian Treat Worth Savoring

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy, yet tender bread that oozes with delectable cheese. That's exactly what you can experience with Focaccia di Recco, a traditional Italian dish that has won the hearts and taste buds of many.

The Origins of Focaccia di Recco

Legend has it that this heavenly creation originated in Recco, a small town in the Liguria region of Italy. This coastal gem is known for its fresh produce and rich culinary traditions. Focaccia di Recco is believed to have been invented in the 13th century by the residents of Recco as a way to make use of the local abundance of cheese and to satisfy their cravings for something truly special.

The Perfect Marriage of Crispy and Cheesy

What sets Focaccia di Recco apart from other breads is its unique texture and flavor profile. Unlike its thick and doughy cousin, the focaccia bread you might be familiar with, Focaccia di Recco is thin, delicate, and incredibly crispy. Its secret lies in the two paper-thin layers of dough that encase a generous amount of mouthwatering cheese, typically stracchino or crescenza.

As it bakes in the oven, the cheese melts and melds with the dough, creating a harmonious union of flavors and textures. The result is a golden-brown, cheese-filled marvel that is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Tips for the Perfect Focaccia di Recco

To truly savor the magic of Focaccia di Recco, it's crucial to pay attention to a few key details. First and foremost, make sure to use high-quality cheese. Stracchino or crescenza are the traditional choices, but you can get creative and experiment with other soft cheeses as well. Second, roll out the dough as thin as possible, allowing the cheese to shine through. Finally, bake the focaccia at a high temperature to achieve that coveted crispiness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Focaccia di Recco is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack. Pair it with a fresh salad or a glass of wine for a complete dining experience.

While the classic version of Focaccia di Recco remains a crowd favorite, there are also delightful variations to explore. Some chefs add herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to infuse the bread with additional flavors. Others experiment with different types of cheese or even incorporate fillings like prosciutto or vegetables.

In Conclusion

Focaccia di Recco is a true gem of Italian cuisine. Its thin and crispy crust, combined with the gooey cheese filling, is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or give it your own twist, this delightful treat is sure to impress. So why not take a culinary journey to Recco and experience the magic of Focaccia di Recco for yourself?

Frequently asked questions

. How do I pronounce Focaccia di Recco?

Focaccia di Recco is pronounced as "foh-KAH-chah dee REH-koh."

. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While stracchino or crescenza are the traditional choices, you can experiment with other soft cheeses that melt well.

. How thin should the dough be?

The dough should be rolled out as thin as possible to achieve the desired crispy texture.

. Can I freeze Focaccia di Recco?

It's best to enjoy Focaccia di Recco fresh, as freezing may affect its texture and taste.

. What are some common variations of Focaccia di Recco?

Some popular variations include adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, incorporating different cheeses, or adding fillings like prosciutto or vegetables.

. Is Focaccia di Recco gluten-free?

No, the traditional recipe for Focaccia di Recco uses wheat flour, which contains gluten. However, there may be gluten-free alternatives available.

. Can I make Focaccia di Recco without an oven?

Unfortunately, an oven is essential to achieve the desired crispiness of Focaccia di Recco.

. What is the best way to reheat leftover Focaccia di Recco?

To enjoy leftover Focaccia di Recco, simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes until it regains its crispy texture.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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