Discover the delightful taste of Fougasse, a traditional French flatbread perfect for any meal. Our classic recipe features a soft, airy texture with a crispy crust, enhanced by fragrant herbs and olives. Ideal for serving as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to your favorite dishes. Easy to make and full of flavor!

Ingredients:

- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 2 tsp active dry yeast

- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 2 tsp salt

- 1 tbsp sugar

- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)

- ¼ cup black olives, pitted and sliced

- 1 tbsp coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.

Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together.

Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape Fougasse: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a knife to cut slashes in a leaf or lattice pattern on the surface.

Add Toppings: Gently press rosemary and olive slices into the dough. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Second Rise: Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.

Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake the fougasse for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. 

Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your homemade fougasse with a side of soup, cheese, or simply on its own!

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour

- Calories: 455

- Carbohydrates: 95g

- Protein: 13g

- Fat: 1.2g

- Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

- Provides energy through carbohydrates.

- Contains protein for muscle repair and growth.

- Fortified versions are a good source of iron and B vitamins.

Active Dry Yeast

- Calories: 11

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits:

- Rich in B vitamins, which support energy metabolism.

- Contains protein and small amounts of minerals such as iron and zinc.

Olive Oil

- Calories: 120

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g

Benefits:

- High in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy.

- Contains antioxidants like vitamin E, which can help protect cells from damage.

- May reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.

Salt

- Sodium: 2300mg

Benefits:

- Essential for maintaining fluid balance and proper muscle and nerve function.

- It is recommended to use salt in moderation to avoid health issues like high blood pressure.

Sugar

- Calories: 16

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits:

- Provides quick energy.

- In small amounts, sugar is a natural part of a balanced diet, though it’s important to limit intake to avoid health issues.

Fresh Rosemary

- Calories: 3

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits:

- Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

- May improve digestion and support cognitive function.

Black Olives

- Calories: 50

- Carbohydrates: 3g

- Protein: 0.5g

- Fat: 5g

- Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

- Good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats.

- Contains antioxidants and vitamin E, which support heart health.

Coarse Sea Salt

- Sodium: 2300mg

Benefits:

- Similar to table salt but with larger crystals; it provides flavor and texture.

- Use sparingly due to high sodium content.

Overall Benefits of Fougasse Ingredients:

- Provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

- Contains various essential nutrients and antioxidants from herbs and olives.

- Olive oil and rosemary add health benefits related to heart health and inflammation reduction.

Keep in mind that portion control is key, especially with ingredients high in sodium and fats. Enjoy your Fougasse as part of a balanced diet!