Imagine a warm, rustic focaccia that combines the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms with the bold, creamy punch of Gorgonzola cheese. This isn’t just bread—it’s a culinary journey that brings the flavors of an Italian countryside directly to your table, transforming simple ingredients into a masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients
Focaccia Dough
- 500g (4 cups) type 00 flour or T45 flour
- 7g (2¼ teaspoons) dried yeast
- 320ml (1⅓ cups) lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 10g (2 teaspoons) salt
Mushroom and Gorgonzola Topping
- 250g (9 oz) fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 100g (3.5 oz) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional)
- Fleur de sel, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Focaccia Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar
- Create a well in the center
- Add lukewarm water and olive oil
- Mix until a smooth batter forms
- Incorporate salt
- Knead the dough for 10 minutes (by hand or stand mixer)
- Aim for a smooth, elastic consistency
- Cover bowl with a clean cloth
- Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size
2. Sauté the Mushrooms
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet
- Add sliced mushrooms
- Sauté 5-7 minutes until golden brown
- Season with salt and pepper
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool
3. Shape and Top the Focaccia
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Generously oil a baking sheet
- Gently stretch dough onto the sheet
- Create dimples with fingertips
- Distribute sautéed mushrooms evenly
- Crumble Gorgonzola over the surface
- Drizzle with remaining olive oil
- Sprinkle with fresh rosemary, fleur de sel, and black pepper
4. Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes
- Look for golden-brown edges
- Cheese should be melted and slightly bubbling
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing
Nutrition and Serving Details
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 16g
Why This Focaccia is a Culinary Treasure
This Mushroom and Gorgonzola Focaccia is more than just a bread—it’s a nutritional powerhouse disguised as a gourmet treat. The whole grain flour provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the mushrooms offer a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Gorgonzola adds a calcium and protein boost, making this focaccia a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, creating a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Pro Tip: Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal. Pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine or fresh salad.
A slice of this focaccia is like a warm embrace from an Italian kitchen—comfort, flavor, and tradition in every bite!