Best Easy Focaccia Messinese Recipe

Rolled and stuffed focaccia from Messina filled with endive, cheese, and tomato is unique to eastern Sicily. A protein-packed vegetarian mediterranean bread perfect for family meals.

Cook 105 min Difficulty NORMAL 305 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • all-purpose flour 3.5 cups
  • instant yeast 2.25 tsp
  • warm water 1.25 cups
  • olive oil 0.25 cups
  • endive 10 oz
  • provolone cheese 8 oz
  • plum tomatoes 2 pieces
  • red onion 0.5 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 41 g 54%
Protein 12 g 16%
Fat 10 g 30%
Serving size 140g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and 1.5 tsp salt; pour in warm water and 1/4 cup olive oil, then mix until a dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until silky and elastic; cover and proof until doubled, about 1 hour.

  2. 2

    While the dough rises, slice endive and red onion thinly. In a skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté onion for 2 minutes, then add endive and a pinch of salt, cooking until just wilted but still bright. Transfer to a plate to cool.

  3. 3

    Cut provolone into thin slices and dice tomatoes. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with a rack in the lower third and lightly oil a large baking sheet.

  4. 4

    Punch down dough and roll out on a floured surface into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Evenly layer with sautéed endive and onion, followed by provolone cheese, tomatoes, oregano, black pepper, and a sprinkle of salt.

  5. 5

    Carefully roll up dough tightly from the long side, pinching seam and ends to seal. Place seam side down on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and let proof uncovered for 20 minutes.

  6. 6

    Bake focaccia for 30–35 minutes until deep golden brown and crusty. Rest 15 minutes before slicing to keep the steam inside and filling intact.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What are the key ingredients in Focaccia Messinese?
The defining ingredients in this recipe are all-purpose flour for the dough, fresh endive for a savory and slightly bitter core, provolone cheese for richness and protein, and plum tomatoes for freshness. These, combined with olive oil and aromatic seasonings like oregano and black pepper, give the focaccia its unique Sicilian identity.
Q. How do I avoid overcooking or undercooking this focaccia?
Use a preheated oven at 425°F and place your rolled focaccia on the lower third of the oven rack. Bake for 30–35 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Let the focaccia rest for 15 minutes before slicing; this prevents sogginess and keeps the interior moist but not doughy.
Q. Which cooking techniques are crucial for a great texture?
Proper kneading of the dough until it's smooth and elastic followed by a full proof helps the bread rise beautifully. Sautéing the endive and red onion just until wilted keeps the filling vivid and prevents excess moisture, ensuring a light, airy crumb without a soggy bottom.
Q. How nutritious is this Focaccia Messinese recipe?
Each 140g serving contains about 305 kcal, with 41g carbohydrates (54%), 12g protein (16%), and 10g fat (30%). The recipe is protein-rich for a bread, and uses Mediterranean staples like olive oil, endive, and tomatoes.
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