20 Italian Focaccia Recipe With Fresh Yeast Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Focaccia is a flat oven-baked bread that originated in Italy and has become a popular dish all over the world. It is a simple yet versatile bread that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. While there are many variations of focaccia, the traditional Italian recipe with fresh yeast is a must-try for any bread lover. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a delicious and authentic Italian focaccia using fresh yeast. So, roll up your sleeves and let's get baking!
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, All Purpose Flour, Fine Sea Salt
Italian cuisine is known for its delicious and unique dishes, but one that often gets overlooked is the Cornetti, or Italian croissants. These flaky pastries are a staple in Italian breakfasts and can be found in almost every bakery in Italy. However, it's not just about the traditional plain Cornetti – there are numerous variations and flavors to try. Let's take a look at some of the best Cornetti recipes and how to make them at home.
Another popular Italian pastry that is perfect for any occasion is the Pizzelle. These thin, crispy waffle-like cookies originate from the central region of Italy and are traditionally made during holidays and celebrations. They are delicious on their own, but can also be filled with cream, chocolate, or even fruit. If you're looking to add some authentic Italian flavor to your dessert table, try making these Pizzelle at home.
No Italian meal is complete without a side of Italian bread. From traditional Ciabatta to Focaccia, there are countless types of Italian bread that can accompany any dish. However, the key to making the perfect Italian bread is using high-quality ingredients and following the traditional recipes. Whether you're making a sandwich, serving a pasta dish, or simply want some bread to dip in olive oil, you can't go wrong with homemade Italian bread.
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Grape Focaccia
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Fresh Yeast, Lukewarm Water
Speaking of Focaccia, have you ever tried a Grape Focaccia? This unique and delicious twist on the classic Italian flatbread combines sweet grapes with savory herbs and olive oil. The result is a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to please your taste buds. It's a great option for a light lunch or afternoon snack, and it's also a beautiful addition to any dinner party spread.
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Classic Focaccia
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Salt, Fresh Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Sugar
Of course, we can't talk about Focaccia without mentioning the classic version. This simple yet flavorful bread is a staple in Italian cuisine and can be made in various ways. You can top it with herbs, olives, cheese, or even vegetables – the options are endless. And while it may seem intimidating to make at home, it's actually quite easy and definitely worth the effort.
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MINI FOCACCIA
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Fresh Yeast, Salt, Extra Virgin
If you're hosting a party or looking for a fun appetizer, why not make Mini Focaccia? These bite-sized versions of the classic bread are not only cute but also perfect for sharing. You can make them in different flavors and toppings to cater to everyone's taste. Plus, they are great for dipping in Italian-style dips like pesto or marinara sauce.
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Cherry Tomato Focaccia
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Fresh Yeast, Sugar, Lukewarm
If you're a fan of cherry tomatoes, then this Cherry Tomato Focaccia recipe is a must-try. The juicy and flavorful tomatoes, along with the herbs and cheese, make for a delicious topping on the soft and fluffy bread. It's perfect for a picnic or a casual gathering with friends, and it's also a great way to use up any extra cherry tomatoes you may have.
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Stuffed Italian Pastries
Main Ingredients: Flour, Fresh Yeast, Dried Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Olive
Looking for something sweet? These Stuffed Italian Pastries are just what you need. They are similar to traditional cannoli, but instead of being fried, they are baked and filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture. The result is a light and delicious dessert that is sure to impress your guests. You can also get creative with the fillings and add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh fruit.
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Italian Festive Pastry
Main Ingredients: White Bread Flour, Salt, Fresh Yeast, Milk, Eggs, Egg
During the holiday season, Italians love to make special Italian Festive Pastries to celebrate. One of the most popular ones is called Panettone, a sweet bread filled with candied fruit and raisins. It's a must-have dessert during Christmas, but you can also make it at home anytime you're craving something sweet and festive.
Sometimes, all you need is a good sandwich. And the Italian-style sandwich is a classic that never disappoints. Whether you're using prosciutto, salami, or mortadella, this sandwich is all about the quality of the ingredients. Add some fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil, and you have a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of the day.
If you love the aroma of fresh herbs, then this Italian Rosemary Bread is for you. The fragrant rosemary adds a unique and delicious flavor to the bread, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. You can also add some Italian-style olives for an extra kick of flavor. And if you have any leftovers, it makes for amazing croutons for your salads and soups.
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Classic Italian Round Flatbread
Main Ingredients: Dried Yeast, Fresh Yeast, Sugar, All Purpose Flour
This Classic Italian Round Flatbread, also known as Farinata, is a traditional recipe from the Liguria region. It's a simple bread made with chickpea flour, water, and olive oil, but it's packed with flavor. It's a great option for those who are looking for a gluten-free and vegan alternative to traditional bread. You can top it with herbs, cheese, or even some Italian-style cured meats.
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Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Italian Bread
Main Ingredients: Fresh Yeast, White Bread Flour, Fine Sea Salt, Olive
Garlic lovers, rejoice! This Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Italian Bread is a must-try. The combination of roasted garlic and fragrant rosemary creates a delicious and flavorful bread that is perfect for any Italian meal. You can also use it to make bruschetta or crostini for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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Panini All’Olio (Italian Olive Oil Rolls)
Main Ingredients: Rolls, Fresh Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Olive Oil, Egg
These Panini All'Olio, or Italian Olive Oil Rolls, are soft, fluffy, and perfect for making sandwiches. The secret to their deliciousness is the olive oil, which is added both in the dough and brushed on top before baking. You can fill them with your favorite Italian-style cold cuts and cheese, or use them to make mini burgers for a fun twist.
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ITALIAN PIZZA MARGHERITA (The Best)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Fresh Yeast, Water, Salt, Extra Virgin Olive
What's an Italian-style recipe roundup without pizza? And when it comes to pizza, nothing beats a classic Pizza Margherita. This simple yet delicious pizza is topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil. It's a great way to showcase the flavors of Italian cuisine in one bite, and it's also a great recipe to try with kids.
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Homemade Pizza
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Fresh Yeast, Warm Water, Sugar, Salt
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making your own Homemade Pizza? You can choose your favorite toppings and customize it to your liking. Plus, making your own pizza dough is easier than you may think. It's a fun and delicious activity to do with family and friends, and the result is always worth it.
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Homemade Tuscan Style Pizza
Main Ingredients: Fresh Yeast, Warm Water, Flour, Olive Oil, Salt
For a taste of Tuscany, try making this Homemade Tuscan Style Pizza. It's topped with prosciutto, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmigiano Reggiano, creating a delicious combination of flavors. And the best part? It's ready in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect option for a quick and easy dinner.
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Breakfast Flatbread with Prosciutto and Tomato
Main Ingredients: Fresh Yeast, Sugar, Bread Flour, Fine Sea Salt, Olive
Who says pizza is only for lunch or dinner? This Breakfast Flatbread with Prosciutto and Tomato is a delicious and savory breakfast option that will keep you full until lunchtime. It's topped with scrambled eggs, prosciutto, tomatoes, and cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors. You can also use different toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or even avocado.
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Simple Onion And Rosemary Focaccia
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Salt, Sugar, Fresh Yeast, Warm Water
Focaccia lovers, here's another recipe for you. This Simple Onion and Rosemary Focaccia is a great option for a quick and easy side dish. The caramelized onions and fragrant rosemary add a delicious twist to the classic recipe, making it a crowd-pleaser. It's perfect for serving with soups, stews, or even on its own as a snack.
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Focaccia
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Wheat, Cold Water, Fresh Yeast, Salt
Last but not least, here's a Focaccia recipe that is worth trying. This simple and rustic bread is topped with just a sprinkle of salt and rosemary, allowing the flavors to shine through. It's perfect for serving alongside your favorite Italian dishes, or you can also use it to make sandwiches or paninis. Once you try it, you'll never want to buy store-bought Focaccia again.
Understanding Fresh Yeast
What is fresh yeast?
Fresh yeast, also known as baker's yeast or compressed yeast, is a living organism that helps bread rise and gives it its characteristic flavor. It is made of single-celled fungi called Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which converts sugar into carbon dioxide, causing the bread to rise. Fresh yeast is sold in small cubes or blocks and can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
Why use fresh yeast for focaccia?
While you can make focaccia with dry yeast or sourdough starter, using fresh yeast gives the bread a distinct flavor and a lighter, fluffier texture. It also helps the dough rise faster, making the baking process quicker. Fresh yeast is also more forgiving for beginner bakers, as it is easier to work with compared to sourdough starter.
Making the Focaccia Dough
Ingredients:
500g all-purpose flour
400ml lukewarm water
25g fresh yeast
2 tsp salt
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
Step-by-step instructions:
In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with a tablespoon of sugar and a couple of tablespoons of lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, remaining water, and olive oil.
Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Baking the Focaccia
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp coarse sea salt
Step-by-step instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
Place the dough in the prepared baking dish and press it down to cover the bottom evenly.
Using your fingers, make indentations all over the dough, creating little pockets for the toppings.
Drizzle the olive oil over the dough and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt on top.
Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Final Thoughts
Making focaccia with fresh yeast may seem intimidating at first, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily recreate this Italian classic at home. The key is to let the dough rise properly and use quality ingredients such as fresh yeast, olive oil, and herbs. So, next time you have a craving for some bread, why not try making a delicious Italian focaccia with fresh yeast? Your taste buds will thank you.