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Whole Wheat Rustichella

17/11/2023

Rustichella is a type of rustic focaccia, which can also be prepared with whole wheat flour for a version with a richer flavor and higher fiber content. Here’s how you can prepare a whole wheat rustichella:

Ingredients

  • 500 g whole wheat flour
  • 300 ml lukewarm water
  • 7 g dry brewer’s yeast (or 20 g fresh brewer’s yeast)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus a little for greasing
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to activate the yeast)
  • Fresh chopped rosemary (to taste)
  • Coarse salt for garnish

Preparation

  1. Dissolve the brewer’s yeast in a bowl with the lukewarm water and the teaspoon of sugar. Let it rest for a few minutes until it starts to form bubbles on the surface, indicating that the yeast is active.
  2. In a large bowl, pour the whole wheat flour and make a well in the center. Add the oil, salt, and the water-yeast mixture.
  3. Begin kneading, gradually incorporating the flour into the liquids, until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour; if it is too dry, add a little water.
  4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for about 10 minutes.
  5. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in volume.
  6. Once risen, roll out the dough on an oiled baking tray, shaping it into a focaccia about 2 cm thick.
  7. Let the rolled-out focaccia rest for another 20-30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200 °C.
  8. Before baking, sprinkle the surface with chopped rosemary and coarse salt, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rustichella is golden and crispy.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Curiosities

The whole wheat rustichella can be enriched by adding black olives, halved cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced onions before baking. Additionally, using whole wheat flour will give you a focaccia with a high fiber content.