Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Topping:

• 2-3 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Coarse sea salt
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir until a sticky dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Gently press and stretch the dough to fit the baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangle or your desired form.
7. Add Toppings: Evenly arrange the sliced jalapeños over the surface of the dough, pressing them lightly into place. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring an even distribution. Season with freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt.
8. Bake: Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia, a perfect blend of spicy jalapeños and creamy cheddar cheese!