Focaccia Genovese: Liguria’s Beloved Bread
Focaccia Genovese, or fugassa in the local dialect, is a classic Italian flatbread from the coastal region of Liguria. Known for its soft, airy texture and golden crust, this bread is generously drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with coarse salt. It’s a versatile, flavorful staple, perfect as a snack, side, or base for toppings.
What Makes Focaccia Genovese Unique?
Focaccia Genovese stands out for its light, fluffy interior and crisp, slightly chewy crust. The hallmark of this bread is the characteristic dimples pressed into the dough before baking, which trap olive oil and create pockets of delicious flavor.
Another distinctive feature is its use of Ligurian olive oil, renowned for its delicate, fruity flavor. This high-quality oil not only enriches the dough but also gives the bread its signature golden hue and fragrant aroma.
A Brief History of Focaccia Genovese
Focaccia has ancient roots, with origins tracing back to the Etruscans and Romans, who baked flatbreads on hot stones. Over centuries, the recipe evolved, and Liguria became synonymous with focaccia due to its abundance of premium olive oil and sea salt.
In Genoa, focaccia was traditionally eaten for breakfast, often dipped into cappuccino, a practice still cherished by locals. Its simplicity and versatility have made it a favorite across Italy and beyond.
How Focaccia Genovese Is Made
Crafting Focaccia Genovese requires patience and high-quality ingredients. Here’s an overview of the process:
Make the Dough: Combine flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil into a smooth, elastic dough. Let it rise until doubled in size.
Shape and Rest: Spread the dough into a baking tray, letting it rest briefly.
Dimple and Season: Press dimples into the dough with your fingers, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt. Add optional toppings like fresh herbs or onions.
Bake: Bake at a high temperature until golden and fragrant.
Ways to Enjoy Focaccia Genovese
Focaccia Genovese is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
As a Snack: Eat it plain or with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
With Meals: Serve as a side with soups, salads, or antipasti.
Sandwiches: Slice it horizontally and fill it with prosciutto, cheese, or grilled vegetables.
For Breakfast: Dip it into cappuccino for an authentic Ligurian experience.
Topping Variations
While the classic version is topped with just olive oil and salt, variations include:
Herbs: Rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Onions: Thinly sliced onions baked into the crust.
Olives: Whole black or green olives for added flavor.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomato halves for a summery twist.
Pairing The Focaccia
Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Vermentino or a light red like Dolcetto.
Cheese: Enjoy alongside Stracchino or Robiola for a creamy complement.
Condiments: Serve with pesto Genovese, a specialty of Liguria, for a perfect regional pairing.
Where to Find Focaccia Genovese
For an authentic experience, try Focaccia Genovese freshly baked in Ligurian bakeries or make it at home. High-quality ingredients like Ligurian olive oil and sea salt are key to recreating its flavor. Find these essentials at Bottega Italiana.
Why You’ll This Focaccia
Focaccia Genovese is more than just bread—it’s a taste of Liguria’s culinary heritage. Whether you enjoy it plain, paired with toppings, or as an accompaniment to a meal, this flavorful flatbread is sure to become a favorite.
Have you tried Focaccia Genovese? Share your favorite toppings and pairings in the comments below!
Photo by Alessio Sbarbaro User_talk:Yoggysot, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons