Eswatini-inspired Focaccia with Local Flavors

Ingredients

This Eswatini-inspired Focaccia differs from the original Italian version by incorporating Eswatini-specific spices and flavors. The addition of coriander and cayenne pepper infuses the bread with a unique taste that reflects the vibrant culinary traditions of Eswatini. Additionally, the choice of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes as toppings adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Focaccia Barese, 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
• 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water
• 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper.
2. 2.
   Gradually add warm 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 it 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 baking sheet, creating dimples with your fingers.
7. 7.
   Arrange the sliced bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes on top of the dough. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
8. 8.
   Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the Focaccia turns golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
11. 11.
    Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of Eswatini-inspired Focaccia.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bell peppers — For a milder flavor, you can roast the bell peppers before slicing and adding them to the Focaccia.
• Coriander — If fresh coriander leaves are not available, you can substitute with dried coriander leaves or omit them altogether.
• Instant yeast — Make sure the yeast is fresh and within its expiration date for optimal rising of the dough.
• Olive oil — Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in the Focaccia.
• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best taste and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle some additional cayenne pepper on top of the Focaccia before baking.
• Experiment with different vegetable toppings like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms to add variety to the dish.
• Serve the Eswatini-inspired Focaccia with a side of spicy tomato chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a softer crust, brush the Focaccia with olive oil immediately after removing it from the oven.
• Leftover Focaccia can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Eswatini-inspired Focaccia warm as an appetizer or alongside a hearty Eswatini stew for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a picnic spread.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves on top of the sliced Focaccia. Serve it on a wooden cutting board or a rustic platter to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables.