Grilled focaccia is a delightful twist on the classic Italian bread, offering a unique flavor and texture that elevates it to a whole new level. This delicious treat combines the traditional focaccia recipe with the smoky goodness of the grill, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown crust that perfectly complements the rich, soft interior. Let’s dive into the art of grilling focaccia and discover how to make this mouthwatering masterpiece at home.
Focaccia on the grill is a fantastic way to add a touch of summer to your meal. The high heat of the grill creates a perfect environment for the bread to develop a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and airy. This method also allows the focaccia to absorb the natural flavors of the grill, infusing it with a delightful smokiness that can’t be replicated by any other cooking method.
To begin, gather all the necessary ingredients for your focaccia. You’ll need flour, yeast, salt, olive oil, and water to make the dough. Once you have the dough ready, you can start the grilling process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect grilled focaccia:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you have a gas grill, turn all burners on high and let it heat up for about 10-15 minutes. If you have a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until they are covered in gray ash.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water and olive oil to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Preheat a baking sheet or a griddle pan on the grill. Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, rosemary, or any other herbs you prefer.
6. Place the dough on the preheated baking sheet or pan and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the grilled focaccia from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Grilled focaccia is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, served with antipasto, or paired with your favorite toppings like sliced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. The possibilities are endless, and the taste is out of this world.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something different, why not give grilled focaccia a try? This delightful fusion of Italian bread and the grill will leave you craving more and more. Buon appetito!
