Cuban-Inspired Focaccia

Ingredients

While the original Italian focaccia is typically seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs, this Cuban adaptation incorporates ingredients commonly found in Cuban cuisine. The traditional Italian herbs are replaced with Cuban spices, and the olive oil is substituted with a tropical twist. This fusion creates a unique and exciting flavor profile that pays homage to both culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Focaccia, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) melted unsalted butter 1 tablespoon (15ml) melted unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) onion powder 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) orange juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) orange juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sliced pickled jalapenos 1/4 cup (60ml) sliced pickled jalapenos
• 1/4 cup (60g) diced ham 1/4 cup (60g) diced ham
• 1/4 cup (60g) diced roasted pork (pernil) 1/4 cup (60g) diced roasted pork (pernil)
• 1/4 cup (60g) diced Swiss cheese 1/4 cup (60g) diced Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup (60g) diced dill pickles 1/4 cup (60g) diced dill pickles

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 48g (Sugar: 4g)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, olive oil, melted butter, lime juice, orange juice, and honey.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press the dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the pickled jalapenos, diced ham, diced roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles evenly over the dough, pressing them gently into the surface.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pickled Jalapenos — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can rinse the pickled jalapenos under cold water before using them in the recipe.
• Diced Ham — Opt for a lean ham variety to reduce the fat content of the dish.
• Diced Roasted Pork (Pernil) — Leftover roasted pork from a previous meal works wonderfully in this recipe. If you don't have any, you can substitute it with cooked shredded pork or omit it altogether.
• Swiss Cheese — Feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with another mild cheese like Gouda or Monterey Jack.
• Dill Pickles — Use dill pickles for a classic Cuban flavor, but you can experiment with other pickles like bread and butter pickles for a slightly sweeter taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, brush the top of the focaccia with olive oil before baking.
• Customize the toppings to your liking by adding sliced onions, bell peppers, or even pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Serve the focaccia warm with a side of mojo sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
• This focaccia makes a delicious sandwich bread. Simply slice it horizontally and fill it with your favorite Cuban sandwich ingredients.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-inspired focaccia as an appetizer, snack, or as part of a Cuban-themed meal. It pairs well with traditional Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja, Arroz con Pollo, or Black Beans and Rice. Cut it into squares or wedges and serve it warm for the best flavor and texture.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro or parsley over the top of the focaccia before serving. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness and make the dish even more visually appealing.