Thai-inspired Focaccia

Ingredients

While traditional Italian focaccia is typically seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs, this Thai-inspired version incorporates lemongrass and coconut for a unique twist. The flavors are bolder and more vibrant, reflecting the aromatic and spicy nature of Thai cuisine. 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 sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 60ml (¼ cup) coconut milk 60ml (¼ cup) coconut milk
• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the warm water and coconut milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or 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 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 chopped lemongrass evenly over the dough, pressing it down slightly.
8. 8.
   Drizzle the vegetable oil over the top of the dough.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
11. 11.
    Slice and serve warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — To release its flavor, bruise the lemongrass stalks with the back of a knife before finely chopping them.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a small amount of finely chopped Thai chili peppers to the dough.
• Serve the focaccia with a side of spicy peanut sauce for dipping.
• Experiment with different toppings such as shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, or Thai basil leaves.
• If you prefer a sweeter version, drizzle the baked focaccia with a mixture of coconut milk and honey.
• Leftover focaccia can be toasted and used as a base for Thai-inspired bruschetta.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-inspired focaccia warm as an appetizer or alongside a Thai curry or stir-fry. It's also delicious on its own as a snack.

Presentation advice

To enhance the Thai-inspired presentation, garnish the focaccia with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and a few fresh cilantro leaves.