Caramelised onion and thyme foccacia
Caramelised onion and thyme focaccia is an Italian bread combining sweet, caramelised onions and fragrant thyme, highlighted by the savoury taste of parmesan. It features a light, airy texture achieved through a traditional bread-making method.
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 105 min
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour1 tsp salt
1 tsp yeast
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tbsp vinegar
Caramelised onion and thyme focaccia is a delightful Italian bread that combines the robust flavors of caramelised onions and fresh thyme with the savory notes of parmesan cheese. This bread is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it's served as a starter, a side dish, or enjoyed on its own. The key to a great focaccia lies in its light, airy texture and the perfect balance of flavors from its ingredients.
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, yeast, and grated parmesan cheese.
- Gradually add the warm water and 1 tbsp of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir to combine until it forms a sticky dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions start to soften.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions, stirring to combine.
- Add the vinegar and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelised. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Transfer the dough to a greased baking tray or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Stretch and press the dough to fit the tray, creating dimples with your fingers.
- Evenly spread the caramelised onions over the surface of the dough.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the onions for added flavor.
- Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Slice the focaccia into squares or wedges.
- Enjoy your homemade Caramelised Onion and Thyme Focaccia warm or at room temperature.
This caramelised onion and thyme focaccia is a testament to the joys of homemade bread. The combination of sweet caramelised onions and aromatic thyme creates a delicious treat that is sure to impress. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, following this recipe and tips will help you create a flavorful and beautifully textured focaccia that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to your favorite meals.
Caramelised onion and thyme foccacia FAQ:
Bake the focaccia in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes or until it is golden brown and cooked through.
The focaccia is done when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) indicates doneness.
Use a standard baking tray or a large baking sheet. Ensure it is greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Yes, you can substitute parmesan with other hard cheeses like pecorino or aged cheddar, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it, wrapped tightly, for up to a month.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and active to ensure proper rising of the dough.
- Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise; don't rush this process to achieve the perfect texture.
- Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Spread the caramelised onions evenly over the dough to ensure every bite gets a taste of the sweetness.
- Resist the urge to open the oven door frequently while the focaccia is baking to maintain an even temperature.
Nutrition Facts
8 ServingsCalories 140kcal
Protein 4.83g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 1.77g
Sugar 1.99g
Fat 4.46g
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