Fougasses with grattons Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 14g fast-action dried yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 350ml lukewarm water
• 200g dried bacon lardons or small cubes of lean pork
• A pinch of chilli powder or cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to season

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar and olive oil. Gradually add the lukewarm water while mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough is formed.
2. Dust a clean work surface with flour and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a clean bowl and cover with a damp tea towel or clingfilm. Leave to rise for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
3. Meanwhile, in a frying pan, fry the bacon lardons or cubed pork until they become crispy. Season with chilli powder or cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper. Set aside to cool.
4. Preheat the oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/gas mark 7.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape them into oval or round shapes. Use a knife or scissors to slash the top of each fougasse to create a decorative pattern.
6. Fill the slashes with the cooled bacon lardons or cubed pork.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and leave to cool on a wire rack.

Verdict:

Fougasses with grattons are an amazing appetizer or snack that combines the deliciousness of bacon or pork with the soft and chewy texture of bread. The chilli powder or cayenne pepper adds a little bit of heat to the dish and makes it even more irresistible.

Serving suggestions:

Serve the warm fougasses with grattons with some butter or olive oil on the side for dipping, or enjoy them on their own as a perfect treat for any occasion. Alternatively, serve with a side salad for a complete meal.