Dutch-style Focaccia

Ingredients

While the original Italian focaccia is typically topped with olive oil, herbs, and sometimes tomatoes, this Dutch-style version incorporates ingredients commonly found in Dutch cuisine. The toppings include Gouda cheese, caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of Dutch herbs, giving it a distinct Dutch flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Focaccia, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) lukewarm water 300ml (1 ¼ cups) lukewarm water
• 50ml (3 ½ tbsp) olive oil 50ml (3 ½ tbsp) olive oil
• 150g (5 oz) Gouda cheese, grated 150g (5 oz) Gouda cheese, grated
• 2 onions, thinly sliced and caramelized 2 onions, thinly sliced and caramelized
• Dutch herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley), for sprinkling Dutch herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley), for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 48g (3g sugars)
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the lukewarm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press it down gently to form a rectangular shape.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the grated Gouda cheese evenly over the dough, followed by the caramelized onions.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle Dutch herbs on top.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Gouda cheese — Use a good quality Gouda cheese for the best flavor and melting properties.
• Dutch herbs — If you can't find a pre-mixed Dutch herb blend, you can use a combination of thyme, rosemary, and parsley.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add some sliced Dutch sausage or bacon on top of the cheese and onions before baking.
• If you prefer a softer crust, brush the baked focaccia with melted butter immediately after removing it from the oven.
• Feel free to experiment with different Dutch cheeses, such as Edam or Maasdam, for a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Dutch-style Focaccia warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own as a snack or appetizer, or as a side dish to accompany soups, stews, or salads.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional Dutch herbs on top of the baked focaccia before serving. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.