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Focaccia Genovese - A Taste of Ligurian Tradition

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    ChefPandas
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🍝 About This Dish

Focaccia Genovese is a beloved flatbread that hails from the coastal region of Liguria in northwest Italy. With a history dating back to Roman times, this iconic dish has become a staple in Italian cuisine, particularly in the city of Genoa. Traditionally, Focaccia Genovese is enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a meal accompaniment.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

  • 500g (4 cups) of all-purpose flour (farina)
  • 350ml (1 1/2 cups) of warm water (acqua tiepida)
  • 7g (2 1/4 tsp) of dry yeast (lievito di birra)
  • 2 tsp of salt (sale)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (olio extravergine di oliva)
  • Coarse sea salt (sale grosso)
  • Fresh rosemary (rosmarino fresco)

✨ What Makes It Special

Focaccia Genovese stands out for its simplicity and versatility. While the basic ingredients remain consistent, variations may include toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or onions. The key to an authentic Focaccia Genovese lies in the quality of the olive oil, which imparts a rich flavor to the bread.

📝 Ingredients

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour and knead until a soft dough forms.
  • Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Grease a baking sheet with olive oil and stretch the dough to fit.
  3. Using your fingertips, create dimples on the surface of the dough.
  4. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and rosemary.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy the authentic flavors of Focaccia Genovese.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Rising: 1 hour
  • Baking: 20-25 minutes

🍷 Wine Pairing

For a traditional pairing, serve Focaccia Genovese with a crisp Ligurian white wine such as Vermentino or Pigato. The fresh and herbaceous notes of these wines complement the bread's flavors beautifully.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Experiment with toppings like cherry tomatoes or olives for a twist on the classic recipe.
  • Serve Focaccia Genovese warm for the best taste and texture.

📦 Storage

To store Focaccia Genovese, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm. Enjoy the flavors of Liguria with this authentic and delicious Focaccia Genovese recipe!