A traditional Italian recipe for yeast bread topped with caramelized onions and crispy rendered pork fat, with two variations: onion bread pizza and pork flatbread.
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Adapted from a video by Buon-A-Petitti
Italian Grandma Makes Onion Bread/Pizza & Pork Flatbread (Chicola)
Pork Fat (can use Pancetta or Pork Belly instead)1½ lb
Steps
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1
Combine active dry yeast, salt, and high gluten flour with warm water and begin kneading. Keep the dough soft, adjusting with extra flour on the side as needed.
2
Continue kneading for about 15–20 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for the first rise.
3
Heat olive oil in a pan, add sliced onions and salt. Stir continuously until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 20–30 minutes, until golden brown.
4
Cut the pork fat into small pieces. Cook in a pan or skillet until the fat renders out and the meat becomes crispy, about 10–15 minutes.
5
Drain the pork fat and meat. Chop into smaller pieces if needed and mix the pork with some of the rendered fat.
6
After the first rise, divide the dough into portions. Let rest for a second rise of about 10–15 minutes. Prepare two variations: one portion for onion bread pizza and one for pork flatbread.
7
Press the dough flat onto a baking sheet. Lightly brush the surface with olive oil to make it moist.
8
Top the onion bread pizza with the caramelized onions, spreading them evenly across the entire surface.
9
Top the pork flatbread with the pork and fat mixture, distributed evenly across the surface.
10
Let both flatbreads rest for about 10–15 minutes before baking.
11
Preheat oven to 375°F. Place the flatbreads in the oven and bake until golden brown and the bottom is crispy, about 25–30 minutes. Watch the color to ensure even browning.
12
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice and serve. Both varieties should have a crispy exterior and soft interior with rich flavor.