JALAPEÑO CHEDDAR FOCACCIA
If you’re a fan of homemade bread with a spicy kick, you’re in for a treat. Our Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia recipe combines the earthy flavors of fresh rosemary and sharp cheddar with the fiery heat of jalapeño peppers. This delightful twist on classic focaccia is easy to make and perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from gathering your ingredients to the final golden-brown result. So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get started.
Ingredients:
Before you begin, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
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| INGREDIENTS |
|---|
| 3 cups all-purpose flour |
| 1 tablespoon instant yeast |
| 1 teaspoon sugar |
| 1 1/4 cups warm water (around 110°F/43°C) |
| 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling) |
| 1 teaspoon salt |
| 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 2-3 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced |
| Fresh rosemary leaves (optional, for garnish) |
| Sea salt (for sprinkling) |
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this delicious Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia.
Instructions:
Step 1: Combining Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
Step 2: Creating the Dough
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Letting It Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Preparing for Baking
Step 5: Shaping the Focaccia
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet and gently press it down to form a rectangular shape.
Step 6: Preheating the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) while the dough rests.
Adding Toppings
Step 7: Creating Pockets
- Using your fingertips, make indentations all over the dough, creating small pockets for the toppings to settle into.
Step 8: Infusing with Olive Oil
- Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This will give the focaccia its characteristic golden crust.
Step 9: Cheese and Jalapeños
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dough, allowing it to melt and meld with the bread during baking. Place the thinly sliced jalapeño peppers on top of the cheese, distributing them evenly for a burst of heat in every bite.
Step 10: Aromatic Touch
- If desired, sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves over the dough for an aromatic touch.
Step 11: Savory Finish
- Lightly sprinkle the focaccia with sea salt, adding a delightful hint of savory goodness.
Baking and Serving
Step 12: Baking the Focaccia
- Bake the Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Step 13: Cooling and Enjoying
- Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Now, it’s ready to be sliced and enjoyed.
