Argentinian-style Focaccia with Chimichurri

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Italian Focaccia with the flavors of Argentinian cuisine by incorporating Chimichurri sauce. The original Focaccia is typically seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs, while our Argentinian-style version adds a generous amount of Chimichurri sauce to the dough and as a topping. This infusion of flavors gives the Focaccia a distinct Argentinian twist, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness. We alse have the original recipe for Focaccia Seravezzina, 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
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 350ml (1 ½ cups) warm water 350ml (1 ½ cups) warm water
• 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• ½ cup Chimichurri sauce (plus extra for topping) ½ cup Chimichurri sauce (plus extra for topping)
• Sea salt, for sprinkling Sea salt, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until 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 220°C (425°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Gently press and stretch the dough to fit the baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Spread the Chimichurri sauce evenly over the surface of the dough.
8. 8.
   Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Drizzle some olive oil over the top and sprinkle with sea salt.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra Chimichurri sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chimichurri sauce — If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Chimichurri sauce used in the dough and as a topping. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking the Focaccia.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the Chimichurri sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Serve the Focaccia as an appetizer or alongside grilled meats for a complete Argentinian-inspired meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Argentinian-style Focaccia warm, either as an appetizer or as a side dish. Cut it into squares or wedges and accompany it with extra Chimichurri sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Present the Focaccia on a wooden cutting board or a rustic serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle some extra Chimichurri sauce over the top for an enticing visual appeal.