Foccacia

• Main Ingredient: Flour
• Prep Time: 1 hr 10 mins
• Cook Time: 35 mins
• Serves: 6-8
• Recipe by: Le Creuset

Create a stunning centrepiece for your table with this beautiful bread adorned with a vibrant flower pattern made from red onions, red peppers, and leeks, adding both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavours. Perfect for any occasion, this decorative and delicious focaccia will impress your guests and elevate your baking repertoire.

Method

1. To make the focaccia, place the warm water and yeast in a large mixing bowl and whisk to dissolve the yeast. Add the flour, followed by the salt. Using a spatula, mix until a shaggy dough is formed. Cover with a tea towel and place the bowl in a warm spot in the kitchen for 20 minutes.
2. Wet your hand and form a cup-like shape. Scoop the dough with your hand and slap and fold it onto itself. Repeat the action until you see small bubbles form and the dough looks smoother, about 2-3 minutes. Drizzle liberally with olive oil and cover again to rest for a further 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 230°C/482°F/Gas Mark 9
4. After 20 minutes, tip the dough onto your work surface and fold it over a few times. Oil the Le Creuset 26cm Shallow Casserole with olive oil and scoop the dough into the dish. Spread the dough with your hands to cover the dish’s surface. Drizzle with more olive oil.
5. Using the prepared vegetables, form flower patterns on the surface of the dough and prove uncovered for another 20 minutes. Use leeks for the flower stems, onion and pepper slices for the flowers. You should see little bubbles on the surface of the dough. Use your fingertips to dimple the surface of the dough and season it with Maldon salt.
6. Bake for 35 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove from the oven and rest for a few minutes and serve warm.