Cherry tomato and rosemary focaccia bread
serves 4
Nothing beats the flavor or aroma
of freshly baked focaccia bread. This focaccia is topped with sweet
cherry tomatoes and rosemary, and contains half whole wheat flour
for extra goodness.
1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
2 teaspoons sugar
1 cup warm water
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (+ 1 tablespoon extra for
brushing)
15 cherry tomatoes — halved
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
MIX together the dry yeast, sugar and
warm water and leave for 10 minutes to activate. COMBINE both flours
and salt in a large mixing bowl then stir in the yeast mixture and 4
tablespoons of olive oil to produce a sticky dough. TRANSFER to a
well-floured work surface and knead for around 8 minutes, adding
more flour as needed to prevent sticking, until you have a smooth,
elastic ball of dough. PLACE the dough in a lightly oiled bowl,
cover with plastic wrap, and allow to rise for one hour in a warm
place (such as a hot water cupboard). FORM the dough into a
focaccia-shaped loaf on a baking tray. USE your finger tips to
dimple the surface and brush with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. TOP
the loaf evenly with the cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with the dried
rosemary. COVER and prove for another 30 minutes in a warm place.
BAKE in a preheated 350°F/180°C oven for 30 minutes. COOL on a wire
rack.
Variations: Top the plain dough with caramelized onions,
anchovies, olives, and thyme to create a Provençal-style focaccia.
Or top with finely grated Parmesan cheese then sprinkle with
shredded basil leaves. Try other toppings like thinly sliced
zucchini, mushrooms and red onions, or char-grilled peppers and
eggplant.
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