Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Bake up a batch of Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This flavorful focaccia is not only easy to prepare but also brings an aromatic twist with fresh thyme and rich gruyère cheese. It serves as a fantastic side dish for holiday meals or a tasty appetizer for gatherings, making it versatile and appealing all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of gruyère cheese and fresh thyme creates a savory taste that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as sandwich bread; the options are endless!
• Perfect for Fall: The warm flavors make it an ideal choice for autumn gatherings and Thanksgiving feasts.
• Great Leftovers: This focaccia stays fresh and tasty, making it a wonderful leftover option for lunches or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand will make the experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet (12 x 18 inches)
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even texture in your focaccia.
• Baking sheet: Using the correct size ensures that your focaccia rises evenly, creating a perfect crust.
• Plastic wrap: Covering the dough while it rises helps maintain moisture, leading to a fluffy final product.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 6 1/4 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 cups warm water (105°F – 115°F or 40°C – 46°C)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 teaspoons fine sea salt

For Topping

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing the sheet pan)
• 1/4 cup room temperature water
• 7 ounces gruyère cheese (sliced into small cubes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons Maldon sea salt flakes

How to Make Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water with the granulated sugar and instant dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add in the bread flour and fine sea salt. Mix until combined.
3. Gradually add 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of olive oil while kneading the dough until smooth.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased mixing bowl.
2. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel; let rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Focaccia

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grease your baking sheet with extra olive oil.
3. Transfer the risen dough onto the prepared baking sheet; gently stretch it out to fit.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Dimple the surface of the dough with your fingers.
2. Pour remaining olive oil over the top, then sprinkle with gruyère cheese cubes, thyme leaves, and Maldon sea salt flakes.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

Enjoy your delicious Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether as an appetizer or a side dish, its rich flavors and delightful texture make it a perfect addition to various occasions.

With Dipping Oils

• Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil infused with herbs for a fragrant dip.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Serve with a side of balsamic vinegar for a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese.

As an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Pair your focaccia with assorted cheeses and fruits for an elegant starter.
• Charcuterie Board: Include slices of cured meats, olives, and nuts alongside your focaccia.

Accompanied by Soups

• Tomato Basil Soup: The classic combo of tomato soup and focaccia is comforting and satisfying.
• Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup during fall pairs beautifully with the flavors of thyme.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Dinner: Perfect as a side dish, this focaccia complements turkey and stuffing wonderfully.
• Christmas Feast: Serve alongside roasted meats for a festive touch.

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How to Perfect Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Achieving the perfect Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia requires attention to detail. Here are some handy tips to ensure your focaccia turns out delicious every time.

• Use Warm Water: The water temperature should be between 105°F – 115°F (40°C – 46°C) to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead Thoroughly: Kneading develops gluten, giving the focaccia its airy texture. Aim for at least 10 minutes of kneading.
• Allow Proper Rising Time: Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, usually about 1-2 hours, depending on room temperature.
• Add Cheese Before Baking: Distributing gruyère cubes evenly ensures that every bite is cheesy and flavorful.
• Use Sea Salt Flakes on Top: Sprinkling Maldon sea salt flakes before baking adds a delightful crunch and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia pairs well with many side dishes. These options will complement its flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and pair nicely with focaccia.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing balance to the rich bread.
3. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter add protein and flavor contrast to your meal.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette provides freshness alongside the hearty focaccia.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a comforting side option.
6. Creamy Risotto: A rich risotto can be an indulgent accompaniment that enhances the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia, it’s easy to go wrong. Here are some common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the yeast proofing: Not activating the yeast properly can lead to flat focaccia. Always dissolve it in warm water with sugar before adding to the flour.
• Using cold water: Cold water can slow down yeast activity. Make sure your water is warm (105°F – 115°F) for best results.
• Not letting it rise enough: A short rising time can result in dense bread. Allow the dough to double in size for a fluffy texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Using a small pan can affect baking evenly. Ensure your baking sheet is large enough (12 x 18 inches) for even cooking.
• Ignoring the salt flakes on top: Skipping the Maldon sea salt flakes can make focaccia bland. Sprinkle them generously for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Keep leftover focaccia in an airtight container.
• item It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• item Allow it to cool completely before storing.

Freezing Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

• item Wrap focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• item It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• item Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 30 seconds at a time until heated.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm each piece for a few minutes on both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia:

Can I use other cheeses instead of Gruyère?

You can substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but Gruyère adds a unique flavor and creaminess.

How do I customize my Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

Feel free to add toppings such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.

What dishes pair well with this focaccia?

Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is great with soups, salads, or served as an appetizer alongside dips.

Can I make this focaccia gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free flour blend may work, but results may vary. Ensure you check measurements and hydration levels.

How long does it take to prepare this focaccia recipe?

The total time is about 4 hours and 20 minutes, including rising times. The active prep time is around 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect as a side dish during fall gatherings or holidays, you can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its warm, cheesy goodness!

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[Appetizer]