Farmer’s Focaccia: A Dive into the Flavors of Tradition

### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate small bowl, activate the yeast by adding it to the warm water. Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms.

2. **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to make this process easier. Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball.

3. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

4. **Shape and Prepare for Baking**: After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a baking sheet. Gently stretch the dough to fit the size of the baking sheet. Use your fingertips to dimple the surface of the dough, creating small indentations across the entire top. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with fresh rosemary, coarse sea salt, and grated Parmesan cheese, if using.

5. **Top with Fresh Veggies**: For that signature farmer’s touch, top the focaccia with halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions, pressing them gently into the dough. These veggies add an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color, making your focaccia not only delicious but visually stunning.

6. **Second Rise**: Allow the focaccia to rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise will ensure that the bread is light and airy when baked.

7. **Bake the Focaccia**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has finished its second rise, bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

8. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once the focaccia is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top and sprinkle with additional sea salt or fresh herbs if desired. Slice it up and enjoy!

### **Why This Farmer’s Focaccia is a Must-Try:**

– **Rustic and Flavorful**: The combination of fresh herbs, savory vegetables, and a touch of Parmesan cheese creates a beautifully balanced bread that’s savory, aromatic, and satisfying. The crunchy crust and soft interior offer the perfect texture.
– **Customizable**: The beauty of focaccia is that you can easily tailor it to your taste. Add your favorite herbs, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your preferences. You can even use seasonal produce to make it unique to the time of year.
– **Simple Yet Elegant**: Though it may seem like a complex dish, this focaccia is surprisingly easy to make and requires just a handful of ingredients. The slow rise process allows the dough to develop a rich flavor, making it an impressive bread to serve at family meals, dinner parties, or gatherings.
– **Farm-to-Table Fresh**: With its seasonal vegetable toppings and fresh herbs, this focaccia is a true reflection of farm-to-table eating. It’s a great way to showcase fresh, local ingredients in a simple, hearty bread.

### **Pro Tips:**

– **Add More Flavor**: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, sage, or even basil. You can also add roasted garlic or olives for extra depth.
– **No Kneading? No Problem**: If you’re short on time, you can use a no-knead method. Let the dough rise for a longer period (about 2 hours), then stretch it onto the baking sheet and bake as usual.
– **Store and Serve**: Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

### **Final Thoughts:**

*Farmer’s Focaccia* is more than just a loaf of bread—it’s a celebration of traditional flavors and rustic, wholesome ingredients. With a soft, airy texture and a golden, crispy crust, this bread is a perfect addition to any meal or a stand-alone snack. Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty soup, using it for sandwiches, or simply enjoying it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, this focaccia will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Try it out, and experience the deep flavors of tradition in every bite!