Moroccan-inspired Focaccia

Ingredients

While the original Italian focaccia is typically seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme, this Moroccan adaptation incorporates the warm and fragrant spices commonly found in Moroccan cuisine. The addition of saffron to the dough and the use of cumin, coriander, and paprika in the topping give this focaccia a distinct Moroccan twist. 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 1/4 tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp saffron threads 1 tsp saffron threads
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 350ml (1 1/2 cups) warm water 350ml (1 1/2 cups) warm water
• 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp paprika
• Extra olive oil, for drizzling Extra olive oil, for drizzling
• Sea salt, for sprinkling Sea salt, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Let it steep for 10 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center.
3. 3.
   Pour the saffron water, warm water, and olive oil into the well. Mix well until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes 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 it down to form a rectangular shape.
8. 8.
   In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the dough.
9. 9.
   Drizzle the top of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and color of saffron, steep it in warm water before adding it to the dough.
• Olive oil — Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in the focaccia.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense flavor, toast the cumin and coriander seeds before grinding them.
• Experiment with different spice blends to create your own unique Moroccan-inspired focaccia.
• Serve the focaccia warm with a side of harissa or Moroccan tomato dip for an authentic Moroccan experience.
• Leftover focaccia can be used as a base for sandwiches or toasted for a delicious snack.
• If you prefer a softer texture, brush the baked focaccia with olive oil immediately after removing it from the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Moroccan-inspired Focaccia warm as an appetizer or alongside a Moroccan tagine or couscous dish. It pairs well with a refreshing mint tea.

Presentation advice

Cut the focaccia into squares or rectangles and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle some olive oil over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for an attractive presentation.