Wake up and Smell the Flours: Part 1 - Savory Layered Bread & Rosemary and Garlic Focaccia

Spring has finally arrived and the bees are out, flowers are in blue and the winter is coming to a close.  Allergy season is here, and we are ready for the outside and to enjoy the heat!  

Adapting is Key

Days are filled with multiple seasons and the world is constantly changing, and so are we.  Adapting is key.  Everyday is a adventure on the horizon, a new challenge ahead of us - something to look forward too.

Avalanche 

Flour is such an integral part of the baking world (and food).  Every time I use flour, I try to challenge myself - to be adventurous and try new things.  Flour reminds me of a white glacier, towering over everything and ready to Crumble at any moment.

Unexpected Guests 

Whether it's a cold rainy day or hot summer afternoon, baking breads are always a fun and great way to experiment with new recipes. I have a few ready to use recipes in my wheelhouse.  At any moment you might get an unexpected guest and need to whip up a quick snack. I am always inspired by what I have in the fridge.  

Smell the “Flours”

This time I have two recipes that are quick and easy to make. Savory Layered Bread and Delectable Focaccia Bread.  Time to Wake up and smell the “Flours”!

Savory Layered Bread

Cooking time: 7 minutes

Baking Time : 45 minutes 

Servings: 4 - 6

Difficulty: 3 1/2 out 5 

For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon!

Ingredients:

• 1 pack Bread Dough (1 batch self made dough will also do)
• 60g Tomato Paste
• 150g Mushrooms (diced)
• 1 red bell Pepper
• 1 yellow Pepper
• 60g minced Garlic
• 250g streaky Bacon
• 300g Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 2 tbs Mixed Herbs
• 2 tbs Paprika Powder
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 180'C
• On a lightly dusted surface, roll the dough out to about 15mm thickness. 
• Spread the tomato paste to cover the base. 
• Dice the mushrooms and peppers. 
• Then fry it on a medium heat until all the moisture has evaporated. 
• Then sprinkle over the base. 
• Spread the garlic evenly over the mushrooms and peppers. 
• Sprinkle the herbs and paprika covering the base. 
• Place the bacon in such a way to cover the dough evenly. 
• Sprinkle the cheese over everything, covering the base properly. 
• Carefully fold the edges of the dough to form a rolled “tube”. 
• Place the bread in a greased oven dish and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until golden brown.  
• Use a skewer to check if the bread is baked through. 
• Slice and serve (as a main meal or side dish). 

Rosemary & Garlic Focaccia (with Feta and Picante Peppers)

Baking Time: 20 - 25 minutes 

Preparation Time: 1-2 hours

Servings: 4 - 6

Difficulty: 1 out 5

Vegetarian

Ingredients:

• 500g all purpose Flour
• 7g instant Yeast
• 350 - 400ml luke warm Water
• 2 tsp fine Salt
• 1 tsp coarse Sea Salt
• 5 tbs Olive Oil + extra
• bunch of Rosemary Spriggs
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 60 - 100g Feta Cheese
• 60g picante Peppers

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 200'C.
• Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl.
• Creating a wall in the flour, add the yeast and salt on opposite sides.
• Quickly mix together, the initial separation will keep the salt from "killing" the yeast. 
• Mix the water and 2 tbs oil together, then gradually mix with the dry ingredients until a dough forms (if the dough is too wet add a little bit of extra flour, or if the dough is to dry add a little bit of water).
• On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5 - 10 minutes.
• Place the dough in an oiled glass bowl and cover, then let the dough rise for 1 - 2 hours (depending on the temperature) or until doubled in size.
• Once the dough has doubled in size, place it in a lightly oiled oven dish.
• With your fingers, create dimples across the dough.
• Sprinkle the remaining olive oil over the dough.
• Spread the garlic evenly over the pockets.
• Crush the feta and spread over the dough.
• Add the picante peppers too.
• Sprinkle the rosemary and sea salt evenly over the dough.
• Bake for 20 - 25 minutes or until golden brown.
• Serve as a side dish, or be fancy and add wine!

Enjoy, take care of the ones around you, and most of all Stay Safe!

Tin_Tin