Soulful Focaccia

Ingredients

While the original Italian focaccia is typically seasoned with herbs and olive oil, this soul food adaptation incorporates flavors commonly found in Southern cuisine. The addition of spices, herbs, and ingredients like bacon and cheddar cheese give this focaccia a unique and delicious twist. We alse have the original recipe for Focaccia, so you can check it out.

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10g) sugar 2 teaspoons (10g) sugar
• 1 tablespoon (9g) active dry yeast 1 tablespoon (9g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) onion powder 1 teaspoon (5g) onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) paprika 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick) 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (115g) cooked and crumbled bacon 1/2 cup (115g) cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted butter 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted butter

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 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 risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press the dough evenly into the pan.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the dough, pressing them gently into the surface.
8. 8.
   Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the dough.
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...

• Bacon — Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy before crumbling it over the dough.
• Cheddar cheese — Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, or mild cheddar if you prefer a milder taste.
• Warm water — The water should be warm to the touch but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce to the dough.
• Experiment with different toppings such as caramelized onions, diced bell peppers, or even sliced jalapeños for added flavor.
• Serve the focaccia warm with a side of honey butter for a sweet and savory combination.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To reheat, simply place the sliced focaccia in a toaster oven or regular oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Focaccia as an appetizer, alongside a bowl of warm tomato soup or as a side dish to complement your favorite Southern-inspired main course. It's best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the oven.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or green onions over the top of the baked focaccia. Serve it on a wooden cutting board or a rustic platter to add a touch of Southern charm.