Immerse yourself in the essence of Italy with this Tuscan-Style Tomato Basil Focaccia, a savory delight where classic focaccia meets the vibrant flavors of a Margherita topping. Enriched with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a duo of cheeses, this focaccia variant is a nod to the traditional Pizza Margherita, echoing the Italian flag’s hues with its colorful toppings.
The Threefold Journey: Bread, Sauce, Toppings
- Base: The journey begins with crafting the focaccia, which provides a pillowy canvas for the luscious toppings.
- Sauce: A fresh, tomato-based sauce crafted from cherry tomatoes adds a tangy sweetness, embodying the essence of a Margherita’s sauce.
- Garnish: Adorning the top are classic Margherita elements – verdant basil, creamy mozzarella, nutty Parmesan, and ripe cherry tomato slices, bringing together the tricolor of Italy.
Focaccia Foundation
Embark on your culinary creation by activating the yeast in a blend of warm water and sugar, setting the stage for the dough’s rise. Infuse the dough with an aromatic mix of olive oil, Italian herbs, and garlic, then allow it to double in volume under the gentle cover of a tea towel.
Crafting the Sauce
As the dough takes shape, pulse together garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil in a food processor, achieving a sauce that’s rustic yet refined. Season with a hint of sugar and balsamic vinegar for a balanced depth of flavor.
Assembling the Focaccia
With the dough risen and pre-baked to a gentle golden hue, layer on the homemade sauce, fresh basil ribbons, slices of mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and cherry tomato rounds. Return it to the oven until the cheese bubbles with joy, signaling it’s ready to serve.
Creative Variations
Whether opting for a convection bake for a crispier crust or employing a cast-iron skillet for an evenly cooked base, this focaccia adapts to your cooking preference. Explore different cooking methods to find your perfect crust texture and flavor depth.
Ingredient List
Dough:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup (80ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2½ cups (312.5g) all-purpose flour
Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 18-20 cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Toppings:
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, sliced into ribbons
- 8 ounces (227g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 cherry tomatoes, sliced
Preparation Steps
- Dough Formation: Initiate the dough by combining yeast, water, and sugar, then enrich with an olive oil mixture. Knead in the flour and let the dough rise.
- Sauce Simmering: While the dough rises, blend the sauce ingredients to your preferred consistency.
- Focaccia Assembly: Preheat the oven, spread the remaining oil in the baking dish, and mold the dough to fit. Pre-bake, then lavish with sauce and toppings before the final bake until the cheese is enticingly molten.
Dive into the Tuscan-Style Tomato Basil Focaccia, where each bite transports you to the heart of Italy, wrapped in the warmth of homemade bread and the freshness of a summer garden.
