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Stuffed Focaccia Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Italian Bread
Focaccia is a beloved Italian bread known for its soft, pillowy texture and delightful flavor. It’s versatile enough to be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even as the base for a hearty sandwich. But what if we told you there’s a way to take your classic focaccia to the next level? Enter the Stuffed Focaccia – a beautiful twist on the traditional recipe that adds layers of flavor and texture with the inclusion of savory fillings.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a Stuffed Focaccia Recipe that combines the best of both worlds: the crispy, golden crust of focaccia and a warm, melty filling. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, homemade bread, this stuffed focaccia will become your new go-to recipe.
What Is Stuffed Focaccia?
Stuffed focaccia is a variation of the traditional Italian focaccia bread, which is typically topped with olive oil, herbs, and sometimes olives or other toppings. The stuffed version goes one step further, layering fillings like cheese, vegetables, or meats between two layers of focaccia dough, creating a savory, flavorful pocket of goodness inside the bread.
The beauty of stuffed focaccia is that you can get creative with the fillings, making it as simple or as complex as you like. From classic combinations like mozzarella and basil to more adventurous options like spinach and ricotta, the possibilities are endless.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Focaccia Recipe
- Delicious Layers of Flavor: The stuffed nature of this focaccia means that every bite is packed with mouthwatering fillings. Whether you opt for a cheesy, herby filling or go for something with more texture, each slice will be a burst of flavor.
- Perfect for Any Meal: This stuffed focaccia is incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as the main attraction. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a tasty snack.
- Simple and Customizable: While it may seem fancy, stuffed focaccia is actually quite easy to make at home, and the filling options are endless. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Stuffed Focaccia
To make your own Stuffed Focaccia, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing and drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (optional, for a herby flavor)
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, provolone, or a mix)
- 1 cup sautéed spinach (optional, you can also use mushrooms, roasted peppers, or caramelized onions)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (for added flavor)
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional, for a creamy texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (for garnish)
- Sea salt (for sprinkling)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Focaccia
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If the mixture doesn’t bubble, it might mean your yeast is expired, so try again with fresh yeast.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix everything together to form a dough.
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a splash of water.
2. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
3. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, you can prepare your filling. In a skillet, sauté the spinach (or any other vegetables or fillings you prefer) with a little olive oil and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool.
If you’re using ricotta cheese, combine it with mozzarella and season it w
