Focaccia

Focaccia is a delectable, flat, oven-baked Italian bread that closely resembles pizza dough. Often enjoyed as a side dish or used to craft sandwiches, one of its most popular variants is Focaccia al Rosmarino, which features the aromatic touch of rosemary and is typically served as a starter or snack.

The name "focaccia" has ancient origins, tracing back to Ancient Rome where the Romans referred to their hearth-baked flatbread as "panis focacius." Although the recipe is believed to have originated with the Etruscans, it is now intrinsically linked to Ligurian cuisine in Italy.

Over time, focaccia has evolved to include numerous regional varieties across Italy. In Liguria alone, different styles such as Focaccia di Camogli and Focaccia col Formaggio are prevalent. Sweet versions, like Focaccia Dolce and Focaccia Veneta, are also cherished in various parts of the country.

Focaccia al Rosmarino is prepared with rosemary, olive oil, and salt. It is typically presented as an appetizer or a snack and boasts a notably moist texture. The bread can be garnished with either fresh or dried rosemary. Variations may include the addition of garlic or basil, or even a serving with prosciutto. Substituting rosemary with sage results in Focaccia alla Salvia. A similar creation is Pizza Bianca, which uses pizza dough. There's also a variant known as Potato Rosemary Focaccia, often referred to as "potato pizza" in New York City.

One of the greatest attributes of focaccia is its versatility. It can be made gluten-free and vegan, making it a perfect base for sandwiches. Whether enjoyed plain or enhanced with additional ingredients, focaccia is a delightful addition to any meal.