Focaccia with Tomato, Green Onion and Garlic | Made by Meaghan Moineau
Title: Aromatic Bliss: Crafting Focaccia with Tomato, Green Onion, and GarlicDescription: Dive into the heartwarming world of homemade focaccia with this delightful recipe featuring tomatoes, green onions, and garlic. Perfect for a cozy family gathering, this dish is a blend of simplicity and flavor, evoking cherished memories while elevating your culinary skills. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this guide will walk you through each aromatic step, ensuring a perfect bake every time. Difficulty: 6/10. Category: Appetizer.
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The Aroma of Tradition: Focaccia with Tomato, Green Onion, and Garlic
There’s something inherently nostalgic about the wafting aroma of freshly baked focaccia. For me, it conjures up memories of Sunday afternoons in my grandmother's sunlit kitchen, where the comforting scent of bread mingled with laughter and stories.
Ingredients:
- Coarse salt- Flour
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Olive oil
- Dried oregano
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons quick-rising yeast
Instructions:
1. Proof the Yeast:
Begin by awakening the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the quick-rising yeast with warm water and sugar. Gently stir to dissolve the ingredients and let it stand for about 3 minutes until it turns foamy—a sign that your yeast is ready to work its magic.
2. Form the Dough:
In a large bowl, create a well in the center of the flour. Dissolve the salt in a few tablespoons of water in a separate small bowl, then add it to the flour alongside the yeast mixture. Pour in the olive oil. Using your hands and a spatula, mix everything together until you form a dough. Knead diligently for 10 minutes, adding a bit of flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and pliable.
3. Let It Rise:
Shape the dough into a round ball. Lightly coat it with olive oil, cover with a thick towel, and let it rest in a warm spot. Allow it to rise until it doubles in size, approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Coat a baking sheet with olive oil and generously sprinkle cornmeal over the entire pan. Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface, punch it down 3-4 times, and let it stand for a few minutes.
5. Shape and Rest:
Roll and stretch the dough into an oblong shape about 1/2 inch thick. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
6. Preheat and Prepare Toppings:
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Once the dough has rested, use your fingers to poke small wells all over its surface. Brush with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle on dried oregano, chopped green onion, diced tomatoes, and minced garlic. Top with coarse salt and a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the focaccia on the bottom rack of your oven and bake for 20 minutes, keeping a close eye as the baking time comes to an end, to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
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A Slice of Memory
Baking this focaccia is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s a journey back to my childhood. I remember my grandmother, her hands dusted with flour, guiding me through the steps while sharing tales of her own mother’s kitchen adventures. The kitchen was our sanctuary, where time seemed to pause, and the simple act of kneading dough became a bridge between generations.
Every bite of this focaccia is a reminder of those cherished Sundays. The tang of tomatoes, the sharpness of green onions, and the warmth of garlic all blend into a melody of flavors that never fails to bring a smile.
Difficulty: 6/10
Category: Appetizer
This focaccia recipe is perfect for those seeking to explore the art of bread-making while indulging in a flavorful appetizer that resonates with nostalgia and warmth. Whether you're recreating family memories or crafting new ones, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple at your table.