Three Cheese Focaccia

ItalianPorkIntermediate120 minBy Northstar

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • 0.3 oz active dry yeast (1 envelope)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 cup warm water, about 110°F
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp kosher salt, for topping
  • 2 tbsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • 11 oz fresh ricotta cheese, room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 oz salami, julienned
  • 6 oz mozzarella cheese, grated, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Using an electric mixer with a dough hook, whisk the yeast, sugar, and warm water together for 2 minutes. Add the flour and salt; mix on low until it comes together, then increase to medium-high until the dough forms a smooth ball and crawls up the hook.

  2. 2

    Grease a bowl with olive oil, add the dough, and turn to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1½ hours.

  3. 3

    Punch down the dough and press it out onto a baking sheet to fill the pan. Sprinkle with kosher salt and coarse pepper. Cover and let rise another 45 minutes.

  4. 4

    In a bowl, combine the ricotta, eggs, salami, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and parsley; mix well and season. The filling must be at room temperature to spread easily.

  5. 5

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Use your fingers to dimple the risen dough all over, then brush with olive oil. Smear the cheese-salami filling evenly across the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden-brown. Slice and serve warm.