Focaccia, that delightful, dimpled Italian flatbread, is so much more than just a side. Its airy interior, crisp exterior, and generous coating of olive oil make it a versatile culinary canvas, ready to be paired with a symphony of flavors. But what exactly should you eat with focaccia to unlock its full potential? Let’s embark on a delicious exploration of the best focaccia pairings, from simple snacks to elaborate meals.
The Versatility of Focaccia: A Blank Canvas for Flavors
Focaccia’s beauty lies in its simplicity. Made from flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt, it offers a subtle, savory base that complements both sweet and savory ingredients. Its slightly chewy texture and the generous amounts of olive oil create a satisfying mouthfeel, making it an ideal partner for a wide array of dishes. Think of it as a more sophisticated, flavorful cousin to regular bread.
Understanding the Focaccia Flavor Profile
The characteristic flavor of focaccia comes primarily from the olive oil and salt. Depending on the recipe, it might also include herbs like rosemary, oregano, or thyme, adding another layer of complexity. This savory profile makes it a natural fit for Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, but its adaptability allows it to shine in other culinary traditions as well.
Simple Pleasures: Snacking with Focaccia
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy focaccia is in its purest form, highlighting its inherent flavors with minimal additions.
Dipping in Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar
A classic and timeless combination. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, perhaps infused with herbs or chili flakes, alongside a small dish of balsamic vinegar provides a simple yet elegant dipping experience. The tanginess of the balsamic cuts through the richness of the oil and the bread, creating a perfect balance. This pairing is often offered as an appetizer in Italian restaurants.
Pairing with Cheese and Charcuterie
Focaccia is an excellent accompaniment to a cheese and charcuterie board. The bread acts as a neutral base, allowing the flavors of the cheeses (such as creamy burrata, sharp provolone, or nutty parmesan) and cured meats (prosciutto, salami, or mortadella) to shine. A smear of fig jam or a dollop of honey can add a touch of sweetness to complement the savory elements.
Enjoying Focaccia with Tapenades and Spreads
Tapenades, such as olive tapenade or artichoke tapenade, are a fantastic way to enhance the flavor of focaccia. Their salty, briny flavors complement the savory bread perfectly. Other delicious spreads include hummus, pesto, or even a simple roasted red pepper dip. These spreads add moisture and depth of flavor to each bite.
Focaccia as a Side Dish: Enhancing Main Courses
Focaccia is not just a snack; it’s a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal.
Partnering with Soups and Salads
A warm slice of focaccia is the perfect accompaniment to a hearty soup or a refreshing salad. It’s ideal for sopping up the last drops of a flavorful broth or adding a satisfying crunch to a light salad. Consider pairing it with a minestrone soup, a tomato soup, or a classic Caesar salad. The bread’s texture and flavor provide a welcome contrast to the textures and flavors of these dishes.
Serving with Pasta Dishes
Focaccia and pasta are a match made in Italian heaven. Whether you’re enjoying a simple spaghetti aglio e olio or a rich lasagna, focaccia is the perfect bread to mop up the remaining sauce. Its absorbent texture ensures that no drop of deliciousness goes to waste. The olive oil in the focaccia also complements the richness of many pasta sauces.
Accompanying Grilled Meats and Vegetables
Focaccia is a fantastic addition to any barbecue or grilling session. Its sturdy texture makes it perfect for holding juicy burgers, grilled vegetables, or sliced meats. The bread’s savory flavor complements the smoky flavors of the grill, creating a harmonious combination. You can even use focaccia as a base for open-faced sandwiches with grilled ingredients.
Focaccia Sandwiches: A Culinary Masterpiece
Focaccia’s sturdy texture and flavorful crust make it an ideal bread for sandwiches.
Classic Italian Sandwiches
Recreate classic Italian sandwiches by using focaccia as the bread. Think prosciutto and mozzarella with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or salami and provolone with roasted red peppers. The focaccia’s flavor complements these traditional fillings perfectly. The thickness of the bread also ensures that the sandwich holds its shape and doesn’t get soggy.
Vegetarian Delights
Focaccia sandwiches are not just for meat-eaters. They can also be filled with a variety of delicious vegetarian ingredients, such as grilled vegetables, roasted eggplant, fresh mozzarella, and pesto. The bread’s savory flavor enhances the flavors of these ingredients, creating a satisfying and flavorful sandwich. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Sandwich Combinations
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations when creating focaccia sandwiches. Try pairing it with smoked turkey, cranberry sauce, and brie for a Thanksgiving-inspired sandwich, or with roasted chicken, avocado, and spicy mayo for a flavorful and satisfying lunch. The possibilities are endless!
Elevating Focaccia: Adding Toppings and Enhancements
While focaccia is delicious on its own, adding toppings and enhancements can take it to the next level.
Herb-Infused Focaccia
Infuse focaccia with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano before baking to add an aromatic dimension. These herbs complement the savory flavor of the bread and add a touch of freshness. You can also sprinkle the herbs on top of the focaccia before baking for a visual appeal.
Vegetable-Topped Focaccia
Top focaccia with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, olives, onions, or peppers before baking to add color, flavor, and texture. These vegetables add moisture and sweetness to the bread, creating a delicious and visually appealing treat. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt enhance the flavors even further.
Cheese-Topped Focaccia
Adding cheese to focaccia before baking is a surefire way to enhance its flavor. Try topping it with parmesan, mozzarella, or provolone for a cheesy, savory delight. The cheese melts into the bread, creating a gooey, delicious topping that is hard to resist. A sprinkle of herbs can add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Focaccia in Different Cuisines: A Global Perspective
While focaccia is traditionally an Italian bread, its versatility allows it to be incorporated into different cuisines around the world.
Mediterranean Influences
In Mediterranean cuisine, focaccia is often served with dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, or tzatziki. Its savory flavor and sturdy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to these flavorful dips. It is also often used as a base for open-faced sandwiches with ingredients like grilled halloumi, roasted vegetables, and olives.
Middle Eastern Inspirations
In Middle Eastern cuisine, focaccia can be paired with dishes like shawarma, falafel, or hummus. Its absorbent texture makes it perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauces and juices from these dishes. It can also be used as a base for wraps or sandwiches filled with Middle Eastern ingredients.
American Twists
In American cuisine, focaccia can be used to make creative and flavorful sandwiches. Try using it as the bread for a pulled pork sandwich, a cheesesteak, or a BLT. Its sturdy texture ensures that the sandwich holds its shape and doesn’t get soggy. You can also use it as a base for pizzas or flatbreads.
Making Your Own Focaccia: A Rewarding Experience
While you can easily purchase focaccia from a bakery or grocery store, making your own at home is a rewarding experience.
The Basic Focaccia Recipe
The basic focaccia recipe is relatively simple, requiring only flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt. However, mastering the technique takes practice. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to allow the dough to rise properly. A generous amount of olive oil is essential for creating the characteristic flavor and texture of focaccia.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Focaccia
To achieve the perfect focaccia, follow these tips:
- Use high-quality olive oil.
- Allow the dough to rise properly.
- Dimple the dough generously before baking.
- Bake at a high temperature to create a crisp crust.
- Brush with olive oil after baking for added flavor and shine.
Variations on the Classic Focaccia Recipe
Once you’ve mastered the basic focaccia recipe, you can experiment with different variations. Try adding herbs, vegetables, or cheese to the dough for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or semolina. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Plate: Focaccia in Other Forms
Focaccia is not just limited to being a bread. It can be transformed into other culinary delights.
Focaccia Croutons
Cut focaccia into cubes and bake them until crispy to create delicious croutons for salads or soups. The croutons add a savory crunch and a flavorful dimension to these dishes. You can also toss them with herbs and spices before baking for added flavor.
Focaccia Breadcrumbs
Grind focaccia into breadcrumbs and use them to coat chicken, fish, or vegetables before baking or frying. The breadcrumbs add a crispy texture and a savory flavor to these dishes. You can also mix them with parmesan cheese and herbs for added flavor.
Focaccia as a Pizza Base
Use focaccia as a base for pizzas or flatbreads. Its sturdy texture and flavorful crust make it an ideal alternative to traditional pizza dough. Simply top it with your favorite pizza toppings and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion: The Endless Possibilities with Focaccia
Focaccia, with its simple ingredients and versatile flavor, offers endless possibilities in the culinary world. From simple snacks to elaborate meals, its ability to complement and enhance a wide range of flavors makes it a staple in many kitchens. Whether you enjoy it dipped in olive oil, topped with vegetables, or used as a base for a sandwich, focaccia is a culinary delight that is sure to satisfy. Experiment with different pairings and toppings to discover your own favorite focaccia combinations. Its slightly chewy texture and savory profile offer a delightful base for a variety of culinary creations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore the many ways to enjoy this versatile Italian bread. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to let your imagination run wild. With a little practice, you can create focaccia masterpieces that will impress your family and friends.
What are some traditional Italian pairings for focaccia?
Traditionally, focaccia in Italy is enjoyed in a multitude of ways, reflecting the regional variations and culinary preferences. One common pairing is with simple, high-quality olive oil, sometimes seasoned with herbs like rosemary or oregano, allowing the bread’s flavor to shine. Another popular option is serving focaccia with cured meats such as prosciutto or salami, providing a delightful contrast of salty and savory flavors.
In Liguria, the region where focaccia originated, it is often enjoyed with pesto, a vibrant sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Additionally, focaccia can be served alongside a selection of cheeses, from creamy ricotta to sharp Pecorino Romano, offering a variety of textures and tastes to complement the bread.
Can focaccia be used as a sandwich bread?
Absolutely! Focaccia’s robust texture and unique flavor profile make it an excellent choice for sandwiches. Its slightly chewy interior and crispy, olive oil-infused crust provide a satisfying base for a wide range of fillings. The relatively flat shape also makes it easy to handle and eat.
When using focaccia for sandwiches, consider its subtle salty taste and the presence of herbs and olive oil, and select fillings that complement these flavors. Roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and flavorful cheeses all work well, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to discover your personal favorites.
What are some popular vegetarian options for eating focaccia?
Focaccia is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of vegetarian ingredients. One popular option is to serve it with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables complements the savory focaccia perfectly, creating a delightful and colorful dish.
Another excellent vegetarian pairing is focaccia topped with pesto, fresh mozzarella, and sliced tomatoes. This combination provides a burst of fresh flavors and satisfying textures, reminiscent of a classic Margherita pizza. Additionally, focaccia can be enjoyed with creamy dips like hummus or baba ghanoush, offering a Mediterranean-inspired culinary experience.
How does focaccia pair with soups and salads?
Focaccia makes a fantastic accompaniment to both soups and salads, adding texture and flavor to the meal. Its slightly chewy texture and subtle salty notes provide a satisfying contrast to the often lighter consistency of soups and the refreshing crispness of salads.
When serving focaccia with soup, consider dipping it into the broth to soak up the flavors. For salads, you can tear the focaccia into smaller pieces and add them to the salad for a crouton-like element. The olive oil in the focaccia also adds a touch of richness and depth to both soups and salads.
Can focaccia be eaten with sweet toppings?
While typically associated with savory flavors, focaccia can also be enjoyed with sweet toppings, particularly if it’s a plain focaccia without strong herbs or seasonings. The slightly salty dough can create an interesting contrast with sweet ingredients, offering a unique and enjoyable culinary experience.
Consider drizzling honey or maple syrup over the focaccia for a simple yet satisfying treat. Alternatively, you could top it with fresh fruit like berries or peaches, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar. The key is to choose toppings that complement the subtle flavors of the focaccia without overpowering it.
Is focaccia suitable for appetizers and snacks?
Focaccia is an ideal choice for appetizers and snacks, offering a flavorful and satisfying option for gatherings and casual meals. Its easily portionable nature and versatile flavor profile make it perfect for serving in a variety of ways. You can cut it into squares or strips and offer it with dips, spreads, or toppings.
For appetizers, consider serving focaccia alongside a selection of cheeses, olives, and cured meats. For snacks, you can simply drizzle it with olive oil and sprinkle it with herbs, or top it with a light tomato sauce and mozzarella for a mini-pizza effect. The possibilities are endless, making focaccia a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
What are some less common, but interesting flavor pairings for focaccia?
Beyond the traditional pairings, focaccia lends itself well to experimentation with more adventurous flavor combinations. Consider pairing it with roasted garlic and goat cheese for a tangy and savory experience. The pungent garlic complements the creamy goat cheese, creating a delicious contrast of flavors and textures.
Another interesting option is focaccia with caramelized onions and balsamic glaze. The sweetness of the caramelized onions balances the acidity of the balsamic glaze, while the focaccia provides a sturdy and flavorful base. These less common pairings demonstrate the versatility of focaccia and its ability to complement a wide range of culinary creations.