Add some excitement to your bread game with this Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia. This savory and slightly spicy flatbread is loaded with the flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and the heat of jalapeño peppers. It’s perfect for serving as an appetizer, alongside a bowl of soup, or even as a sandwich bread. Get ready to enjoy a taste explosion!
Ingredients:
For the Focaccia Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
For the Topping:
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl.
- Add olive oil to the bowl.
- Mix the ingredients until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Prepare the Focaccia:
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet or a baking dish.
- Using your fingers, press the dough evenly into the shape of a rectangle or square.
- Drizzle the top of the dough with olive oil.
- Press the jalapeño pepper slices into the dough at even intervals.
- Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the dough.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for added flavor and aroma.
- Finally, sprinkle the top with coarse sea salt for extra seasoning.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the prepared focaccia with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.
7. Bake:
- Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares or wedges.
- Serve it warm and enjoy the savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors.
This Jalapeo Cheddar Focaccia is a delicious way to combine the heat of jalapeo peppers with the richness of sharp cheddar cheese. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or make sandwiches with it, it’s sure to please anyone who enjoys a little spice and a lot of flavor in their bread.