Italian Cheese Focaccia Style Pizza

This flavorful Italian-style cheese focaccia pizza is a delightful twist on classic pizza, featuring a crispy crust and delicious cheese topping. The dough is made from basic ingredients like flour, fresh yeast, and a unique blend of herbs, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings such as bell peppers and smoked sausage. Easy to make at home, this focaccia pizza offers a taste of Italy with a texture that's both chewy and crusty. Perfect for any occasion, it's great for sharing with friends and family. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Experience the freshness of herbs and the savory richness of cheese in every bite as you savor this homemade delight. Enjoy the process of creating your own authentic Italian culinary experience right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 220 ml warm water
• 20 g fresh yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 200 g cheese (50 g for the dough, the rest for topping)
• 300 g flour
• 4 tbsp buckwheat bran (or any other bran or oats)
• 3 tbsp olive oil

Spices

• Majoram
• Basil
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Sage

Optional Toppings

• Bell peppers
• Parmesan smoked sausage

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. In a mixing bowl, crumble the fresh yeast and sprinkle with sugar. Stir until the yeast dissolves.
2. Pour in 100 ml of lukewarm water and add 4 tbsp of flour. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Cover the mixture and let it sit for 15 minutes to rise.
4. Sift the remaining flour together with the salt in a separate bowl.
5. Once the yeast mixture has risen, add approximately 50 g of grated cheese, the rest of the lukewarm water (120 ml), your preferred herbs, and bran. Stir to combine.
6. Gradually add the sifted flour while mixing. As the dough becomes difficult to mix with a spoon, add 2 tbsp of olive oil and start kneading by hand.
7. Continue adding flour until the dough is soft, elastic, and doesn’t stick to your hands.
8. For best results, wash your hands halfway through mixing and continue to knead with clean hands. This prevents over-flouring.
9. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it proof in a warm place for about an hour. A good place is a slightly heated oven, which you can warm for 5 minutes and then turn off.
10. After an hour, the dough should be beautifully risen.
11. Divide the dough into two portions.
12. Shape each portion by hand to your desired form. Avoid using a rolling pin. If you aren't adding toppings, brush the dough lightly with olive oil, cover, and let rise for another 20 minutes.
13. If you decide to add toppings, this is the time to do so. Consider adding parmesan sausage or finely chopped bell peppers with fresh dill.
14. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
15. Bake the focaccia for 15 minutes.
16. Generously sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
17. Cut the focaccia into pieces.
18. Enjoy the enticing aroma and beautiful appearance of this delicious creation.
19. Taste the exceptional flavor profile.
20. Bon appétit!

Tips

• Substitution: Use oat flakes if you don't have bran on hand.
• Herbs: Feel free to adjust the quantity and variety of herbs based on your personal preference.
• Proofing Tip: Use a clean kitchen towel to cover the dough for an even rise.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 15 g
• Carbs: 30 g

Variations

• Vegan: Replace cheese with a vegan alternative and ensure all other ingredients like toppings are plant-based.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of regular to suit dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Best Places

1. La Focaccia - A renowned spot for traditional focaccia with modern twists. Location: Via Roma, 25, Milan, Italy.
2. Pane e Vino - Offers an authentic Italian dining experience with a focus on classic recipes. Location: 81 Rivington St, New York, USA.
3. Café Italiano - Known for its fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Location: 125 Leadenhall St, London, UK.
4. Bottega Focaccia - A cozy spot with a wide range of focaccia variations. Location: 88 Rue Lepic, Paris, France.
5. Vino Vino - A wine and dine spot known for their exquisite focaccia. Location: 111 Collins St, Melbourne, Australia.
6. Ristorante Roma - Offers a taste of Italy in the heart of the city. Location: 39 Takashima, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan.
7. Trattoria Giuseppe - A family-owned restaurant with a passion for focaccia. Location: Alter Markt 57, Cologne, Germany.
8. Il Forno - A delightful bakery with classic Italian recipes. Location: Rua Augusta, 54, Lisbon, Portugal.
9. Taverna Italia - This spot offers a casual dining experience with exceptional focaccia. Location: Lygon St, Carlton, Australia.
10. Pasticceria Dolce - Famous for its assortment of pastries and Italian breads. Location: Via del Corso, 12, Rome, Italy.