Chipotle Focaccia With Garlic-Onion Topping

Chipotle Focaccia with Garlic-Onion Topping is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Italian bread, Focaccia. This recipe elevates the traditional Focaccia by infusing it with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers and the savory richness of caramelized garlic and onions. The result is a tantalizing bread that’s both aromatic and flavorful, making it a perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes or a delicious standalone snack. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of this delightful recipe and the harmonious marriage of flavors and textures it offers.

INGREDIENTS

For the Focaccia Dough:

• 1 cup water (70° to 80°)
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 Tbsp. chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
• 1 ½ tsp. active dry yeast

For the Topping:

• 6 garlic cloves, peeled
• ¼ tsp. plus 7 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
• 2 large onions, cut into ¼-in. slices
• 2 Tbsp. chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• ¼ tsp. salt
• Chopped chives (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a bread machine pan, place the first 6 ingredients in the order suggested by the manufacturer. Select the dough setting (check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1-2 Tbsp. water or flour if needed).
2. When the cycle is completed, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Punch down the dough; cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
3. Place garlic in a small microwave-safe bowl. Drizzle with ¼ tsp. oil. Microwave on high for 20-60 seconds or until softened. Mash the garlic.
4. Roll the dough into a 12×10-in. rectangle. Transfer to a well-greased baking sheet. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until slightly risen, about 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. With your fingertips, make several dimples over the top of the dough. Brush the dough with 1 Tbsp. oil. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, sauté onions in the remaining 6 Tbsp. oil until tender. Add the chipotle peppers, salt, and mashed garlic; sauté 2-3 minutes longer. Sprinkle this mixture over the baked dough.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. If desired, top with chopped chives. Cut into serving portions and serve warm.

FREEZE OPTION: 

• Freeze cooled focaccia squares in freezer containers; separate layers with waxed paper. Reheat on an ungreased baking sheet in a preheated 400° oven until heated through.

TIPS:

• To make the dough by hand, in a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water (105° to 115°). Stir in oil, chipotle pepper, salt and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch dough down. Proceed with recipe as written.