Focaccia al formaggio
Classic Ligurian focaccia with cheese, a thin and crispy bread filled with creamy stracchino cheese.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Focaccia has ancient roots, possibly dating back to the Etruscans or ancient Greeks. The Ligurian version, known as 'fugassa', evolved over centuries, influenced by available ingredients and baking techniques. The addition of cheese, specifically stracchino, is a more modern development, solidifying its status as a Ligurian specialty.
Focaccia al Formaggio is deeply embedded in Ligurian culture, representing a simple yet satisfying culinary tradition.
A Ligurian Staple
Focaccia al Formaggio is a common sight in bakeries and pizzerias throughout Liguria, often enjoyed as a snack, light lunch, or aperitivo.
Sharing and Celebration
It is often shared amongst family and friends, especially during celebrations and gatherings. The act of tearing pieces off and enjoying it together strengthens bonds and creates a sense of community.
Local Pride
Ligurians take great pride in their Focaccia al Formaggio, considering it a culinary symbol of their region. Variations exist, but the core components remain consistent.
Focaccia al Formaggio offers a harmonious blend of salty, savory, and creamy flavors, with a satisfying textural contrast.
The dominant flavor is the creamy, slightly tangy stracchino cheese, which melts into a luscious filling between the thin, crispy layers of focaccia dough. High-quality olive oil adds richness and contributes to the crispness. A touch of salt enhances the overall savoriness. The dough itself has a mild, slightly yeasty flavor that complements the cheese.
Dough Hydration
A high hydration dough is crucial for achieving the desired thinness and crispness. Don't be afraid of a sticky dough; it's essential for the final result.
Stracchino Quality
The quality of the stracchino cheese greatly impacts the flavor. Seek out fresh, creamy stracchino for the best results. If stracchino is unavailable, a very soft, similar cheese like crescenza can be substituted, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
Thin Layers
Roll the dough as thinly as possible without tearing it. This creates the signature crispy texture. Use plenty of flour to prevent sticking.
Proper Baking
Bake at a high temperature to ensure the focaccia becomes crisp and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving Immediately
Focaccia al Formaggio is best enjoyed immediately after baking, while the cheese is still molten and the crust is at its peak crispness.
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