What to serve focaccia with
Introduction
Focaccia, a delightful bread hailing from Italy, is renowned for its rich flavor and versatility. This oven-baked delight is usually seasoned with olive oil, salt, and may include other ingredients such as rosemary, garlic, or even various toppings. The question often asked is, “What should I serve with Focaccia?” The answer is, there are countless possibilities!
Antipasti Selection
One of the most traditional ways to serve focaccia is with an antipasti selection. Antipasti, meaning ‘before the meal’, is a traditional Italian starter usually including cured meats, cheese, olives, and marinated vegetables. The robust flavors of focaccia complement the rich, salty, and tangy elements of a typical antipasti platter, making it the perfect pairing.
With Soups and Stews
Focaccia bread can also be served with a variety of soups and stews. The bread’s fluffy yet firm texture makes it the perfect vessel for sopping up rich broths and sauces. Whether it’s a hearty minestrone, a flavorful chicken soup, or a comforting beef stew, focaccia is sure to elevate your soup or stew experience to a whole new level.
As a Sandwich Bread
Another wonderful way to enjoy focaccia is by using it as sandwich bread. The slightly crunchy crust and soft, airy interior make it an excellent choice for sandwiches. The olive oil and salt in the bread add an extra layer of flavor, making any sandwich gourmet. Whether you’re using simple, fresh ingredients like mozzarella, tomato, and basil, or more complex combinations like chicken, pesto, and sundried tomatoes, focaccia sandwiches are a treat to your taste buds.
Salads
Finally, focaccia can serve as a delightful accompaniment to fresh, crisp salads. The bread’s savoriness balances well with the light, refreshing flavors of the salad. It can also be toasted and torn into crouton-sized pieces for added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the versatility of focaccia makes it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. Whether it’s served with antipasti, soups and stews, used as sandwich bread, or paired with fresh salads, focaccia is sure to add a touch of Italian flair to your meal.
