Crispy Pork Belly Focaccia (Ciaccia coi Friccioli)

Ciaccia coi Friccioli (Pork Belly Focaccia)

Category: Baked Goods
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ciaccia coi Friccioli is a savory, mouthwatering focaccia that’s packed with rich, crispy pork belly bits and seasoned with black pepper, making it a perfect companion to any meal or a delightful snack. This rustic bread is crafted with a simple dough, enhanced by the inclusion of crispy pancetta, delivering a satisfying crunch and an irresistible flavor.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pancetta:
   Begin by heating a pan over low heat and adding the diced pancetta. Slowly cook it until it crisps up and releases its fat. Allow it to cool down completely before using.

2. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pancetta with the bread dough. Add a pinch of black pepper to the mixture to give it an extra kick of flavor. Knead the dough until the pancetta is evenly distributed, and the dough becomes smooth and well combined.

3. Let the Dough Rise:
   Once the dough is well-mixed, shape it into a round loaf (or your desired shape) and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise for at least one hour in a warm spot, until it has doubled in size.

4. Baking:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dough onto a baking sheet, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, and bake for approximately one hour, or until the ciaccia is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

5. Serve:
   Once baked, remove the ciaccia from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it up, serve it warm, and enjoy the delicious, savory flavors of pancetta with every bite.

Tips:

• The pancetta can be swapped out for other cured meats, such as speck or bacon, depending on your preference.
• You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the top before baking for an added burst of flavor.

Enjoy this flavorful focaccia as a side dish, snack, or part of a larger meal—it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the table!