How to Make a Classic Italian Grape Focaccia
Focaccia, a beloved Italian bread, is a versatile dish that can be served as a side, snack, or even a dessert. One of the most delightful variations is the grape focaccia, which combines the rich, savory flavor of the bread with the sweetness of fresh grapes. This simple yet elegant bread is perfect for autumn, as it features seasonal grapes. The dough is soft and slightly chewy, while the grapes add a burst of sweetness with each bite. Here’s how to make a classic Italian grape focaccia.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 500g (about 4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 325ml (1 1/3 cups) warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
For the Topping:
- 250g (about 2 cups) red or black grapes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional)
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Once it comes together, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook if preferred.
- Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
2. Shape the Focaccia:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a greased baking sheet or a large round pizza pan.
- Gently stretch the dough with your fingers to fill the entire surface of the pan, ensuring it is about 1-inch thick. If the dough resists, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing to stretch it out.
3. Add the Toppings:
- Drizzle the dough with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Press the grape halves into the dough, scattering them generously across the focaccia. The grapes should sit slightly embedded in the dough, but don’t worry about perfect placement—it will look rustic and beautiful.
- If desired, sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves over the top for added flavor. You can also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and some freshly ground black pepper for extra seasoning.
4. Bake the Focaccia:
- Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the grapes have softened and caramelized slightly. The edges of the bread should be crisp, and the center should feel soft and airy.
5. Finishing Touches:
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting it into pieces.
- For a final touch, drizzle a little more olive oil over the top while it’s still warm. This adds a rich gloss and enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Classic Italian grape focaccia can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Serve it as a light snack with a glass of wine, especially a crisp white wine or a fruity red.
- Pair it with cheese, such as ricotta, goat cheese, or mozzarella, for a delicious appetizer.
- Enjoy it as a dessert by itself or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect end to a meal.
Tips for Perfect Grape Focaccia:
- Use Fresh Grapes: For the best flavor, always use fresh, ripe grapes. Red or black grapes work wonderfully, but green grapes can also be used for a tangier taste.
- Let the Dough Rise Properly: Don’t rush the rising process. Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size. This will ensure a light, airy texture.
- Experiment with Toppings: While the classic grape and rosemary combination is lovely, feel free to get creative. You can add other fruits like figs or pears, or even top the focaccia with nuts like walnuts for extra crunch.
- Make it Sweet or Savory: Grape focaccia can lean towards either direction. If you prefer a sweeter version, you can sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking or drizzle honey after it comes out of the oven.
Why This Grape Focaccia is Special:
The grape focaccia is a unique and delightful twist on traditional Italian bread. The balance of sweet and savory flavors—thanks to the grapes and the rosemary—makes it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. The combination of soft, pillowy dough and juicy grapes creates a satisfying contrast in texture, and the rosemary adds a fragrant herbal touch.
This focaccia is not only simple to make but also visually stunning. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. Whether you enjoy it as a savory side to a meal or as a dessert, the classic Italian grape focaccia is a versatile and mouthwatering treat you’ll want to make again and again.