Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked bread, and when you add the tangy twist of dill pickles, it becomes an unforgettable experience. I stumbled upon the idea of Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread while searching for new ways to incorporate my love for pickles into savory dishes. This recipe has quickly become a hit in my household, eliciting smiles from my family every time I serve it. The combination of a fluffy, golden crust topped with gooey mozzarella and zesty pickles is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this focaccia bread will surely become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Sauce:

• ¾ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dill weed
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 25-30 dill pickle slices
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh dill, roughly chopped for garnish

Instructions

Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let it rest for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix the olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and salt.
3. Pour half of the oil mixture into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, stirring until combined.
4. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

1. While the dough is rising, combine all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl.
2. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Set aside.

Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Pour the remaining oil mixture into a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Use a pastry brush to coat the bottom and sides of the skillet evenly.

Assemble Focaccia

1. Once the dough has risen, add it to the skillet and gently press it to the edges.
2. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough.
3. Spread the prepared garlic sauce evenly over the surface of the dough.
4. Arrange the dill pickle slices on top of the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.

Bake

1. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.

Serve

1. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh dill before serving.
2. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into 12 generous pieces.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
• Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or additional garlic sauce.
• Enjoy alongside a light salad or as a side for grilled meats.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Pickle Quantity: Feel free to add more or fewer pickle slices based on your preference for tanginess.
2. Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
3. Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
4. Oil Variations: Use flavored olive oils, such as garlic-infused, for an extra depth of flavor in the crust.
5. Chill Sauce: For a cooler option, serve the garlic sauce as a dip on the side instead of spreading it on the dough.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Focaccia: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes into the garlic sauce for some heat.
• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy products in the sauce with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a game-day snack alongside wings or nachos.
• Pair with soups and stews for a hearty meal.
• Use as a base for sandwiches—just slice and fill with your favorite ingredients.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

• Yes, you can substitute instant yeast; there’s no need to proof it in water.

1. What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?

• You can use any oven-safe baking dish, though the texture may vary slightly.

1. How do I know when the focaccia is done baking?

• It should be golden brown on top and the cheese bubbly. A toothpick inserted in the crust should come out clean.

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?

• Yes, but the texture may be denser. Consider mixing half all-purpose flour with half whole wheat for a lighter result.

1. What can I do if the dough doesn’t rise?

• Ensure your yeast is active and the water is the right temperature. If the environment is too cold, the dough may take longer to rise.

1. How can I reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

1. Is there a gluten-free option for this focaccia?

• Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to follow the specific guidelines for hydration as gluten-free flours often absorb water differently.

1. What kind of pickles work best?

• Dill pickles are traditional, but feel free to experiment with bread and butter pickles for a sweeter taste.

1. Can I add other toppings?

• Absolutely! Consider adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

1. What’s the best way to store the garlic sauce?
   • Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread is a delightful fusion of flavors that will please pickle lovers and bread enthusiasts alike. Its crispy crust, creamy garlic sauce, and generous topping of mozzarella make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or snack, it promises to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the process of making it, the aroma that fills your kitchen, and the joy of sharing this unique bread with family and friends!

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