Indulge in the flavors of Catalonia with this traditional Catalan dish, Coca de Recapte. Originating from the rural areas of Catalonia, this savory pastry is a delightful amalgamation of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The base of the coca is a thin, crisp dough, topped generously with a medley of roasted vegetables such as red peppers, eggplant, and onions, along with salty anchovies and sometimes olives. Its rustic charm and robust taste make it a beloved staple in Catalan cuisine, perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or enjoyed as a satisfying snack any time of day. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary adventurer, this Coca de Recapte recipe promises to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed landscapes of Catalonia with every delicious bite.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the topping:

• 2 medium-sized red bell peppers
• 1 large eggplant
• 1 large onion
• 2-3 tomatoes, sliced
• 4-6 anchovy fillets (optional)
• 1 Catalan sausage (butifarra) or chorizo, thinly sliced
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2- Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

3- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball, place it back into the bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

4- Meanwhile, prepare the topping. Wash the red bell peppers and eggplant, then cut them into thin slices. Peel and thinly slice the onion.

5- Place the sliced peppers, eggplant, and onion on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

6- Once the dough has rested and risen slightly, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your hands to flatten and spread the dough evenly to form a thin rectangular shape.

7- Arrange the roasted vegetables evenly over the dough, followed by the sliced tomatoes, anchovy fillets (if using), and thinly sliced sausage or chorizo.

8- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the topping and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

9- Place the Coca de Recapte in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

10- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or main dish, and enjoy the authentic flavors of Catalonia!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Catalonia Coca de Recapte recipe:

All-purpose flour (2 cups):

• Calories: 440
• Carbohydrates: 92g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits:A good source of carbohydrates and provides energy for the body.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:Helps to enhance flavor and balances the taste of the dish.

Sugar (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 16
• Carbohydrates: 4g

benefits:Adds sweetness to the dough and helps with yeast fermentation.

Instant yeast (1 packet - 7g):

• Calories: 20
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 2.5g

benefits:Leavens the dough, causing it to rise and create a soft texture in the final product.

Warm water (3/4 cup):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:Hydrates the dough and activates the yeast for fermentation.

Olive oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 238
• Fat: 27g

benefits:Provides healthy fats and adds flavor to the dough.

Red bell peppers (2 medium-sized):

• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits:Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which are beneficial for immune health and digestion.

Eggplant (1 large):

• Calories: 33
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits:Contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support heart health and may help reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:High in antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C and fiber, which may have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Tomatoes (2-3, sliced):

• Calories: 22-33
• Carbohydrates: 5-8g
• Protein: 1-2g
• Fat: 0.2-0.3g
• Fiber: 1-2g

benefits:A good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall health.

Anchovy fillets (4-6):

• Calories: 20-30
• Protein: 4-6g
• Fat: 1-2g

benefits:Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and minerals like calcium and iron, which support heart health and provide essential nutrients.

Catalan sausage or chorizo (1 sausage):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 16g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Provides protein and essential nutrients, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.

Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on factors such as brand, specific type of ingredient used, and preparation methods. These values are based on typical nutritional information and are provided for general guidance.