Whole wheat focaccia with figs, honey and thyme

Whole Wheat Focaccia with Figs, Honey, and Feta Cheese is a celebration of flavors and textures, bringing together the rustic charm of whole grains with the luscious sweetness of figs and honey, balanced by the tangy bite of feta cheese. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to a meal, this delightful creation will tantalize the taste buds and nourish the soul. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked focaccia fill your kitchen.

With its airy crumb, golden crust, and ability to carry an array of toppings, focaccia stands as a testament to the artistry of bread-making. Whole wheat flour adds depth and nuttiness to the focaccia, enriching its flavor and

nutritional profile. Each bite is a symphony of sweetness, saltiness, and herbaceous goodness, dancing atop a canvas of perfectly baked bread. It’s more than just a snack; it’s an experience of pure delight and culinary bliss!

Apart from the taste which was out of this world, my main motive for making this bread was the aesthetics. Figs look gorgeous and combined with the golden shimmering honey it creates the most stunning visuals. I added toasted pinenuts to give this bread a slightly Middle Eastern feel. 

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 5-6

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat flour 2 cups 
• All-purpose flour 1 cup 
• Active dry yeast 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) 
• Warm water 1 ½ cups 
• Olive oil 2 tablespoons, plus extra for drizzling
• Salt 1 teaspoon 
• Sugar 1 teaspoon 
• Figs 6-8 fresh, sliced
• Feta cheese ½ cup crumbled 
• Honey 2 tablespoons for drizzling
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
• Toasted pine nuts 2 tbsp

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, olive oil, and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly oiled baking sheet. Press the dough into a rectangle or circle, about ½ inch thick.
5. Arrange the sliced figs evenly over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. Drizzle the honey over the figs and cheese. Allow the focaccia to rest for another 15-20 minutes.
6. Before baking, drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the focaccia. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and an extra drizzle of honey if desired. Slice and serve warm.