Imagine the savory aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from your kitchen, inviting you to gather your loved ones around the table. In this delicious recipe, we’ll be creating a delightful twist on the classic focaccia bread, perfect for adding a touch of fiesta to your mealtime. Our Fiesta Focaccia combines vibrant flavors and colors to create a stunning bread that will be the star of any gathering. Let’s get ready to bake up a storm with this flavorful and festive recipe!
**Fiesta Focaccia**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/3 cups warm water (110°F)
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup green bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Flaky sea salt, for topping
– Freshly ground black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
3. Stir the mixture until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface.
4. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning to coat.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Gently press and stretch the dough to form a rectangle or oval shape.
8. Using your fingertips, make dimples all over the surface of the dough. This will create those classic focaccia pockets to hold the toppings.
9. Scatter the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, basil, and garlic evenly over the dough. Press them down slightly so they adhere.
10. Drizzle some extra olive oil over the toppings and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
11. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
12. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing it into squares or wedges. Serve warm and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
This Fiesta Focaccia is a true celebration of colors and flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch with friends or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this festive bread is sure to impress. The combination of savory sun-dried tomatoes, briny olives, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic herbs creates a delicious medley of tastes that will have everyone coming back for more. So, grab your apron and get ready to bake up this flavorful treat that will brighten up any table!
