Sometimes I feel this humble blog is my somewhat ignored child. I think about this blog all the time and I’m constantly planning a million things to post here. But alas, paid work must come first and sometimes that work takes up most of my time… which is a good thing is it not?
You should see my list of recipes I’ve got going. Every season I make this long list of recipes to prepare, photograph and post here for you to completely revel in and enjoy. However, half of those recipes never make it onto the blog. The really delicious recipes that I feel you MUST have come rain or shine or snowstorm or vacation actually get posted. Other recipes sort of hang around season after season until before I know it, it’s been a full year and the recipe is still on my “to post” list.
This Socca (chickpea flatbread) is one such recipe. I can’t say for certain why it’s taken me so long to post this other than it often disappears before I can snap a few photos.
Socca is such a simple, fragrant, tasty little recipe that I prepare at least two or three times a week. Sometimes I’ll make Socca on the weekends and we nibble on it with cheese and wine for a light dinner or snack. My sassy gals love socca with fresh herbs and garlic as a compliment to a dinner salad or soup.
Socca is so versatile I use it for pizza crust on occasion or serve it for breakfast with fried eggs and wilted greens.
Socca, also referred to as Farinata, originated in Italy. It’s a simple flatbread made with chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt and typically rosemary. Although, many versions of socca can be found all over the world. Some recipes call for resting the batter for several hours prior to baking. I’ve tried it both ways. Whisking the batter and baking it off within minutes of preparation. Or letting the batter sit for several hours before popping it in the oven before dinner. Personally, I love the end result when the batter has had time to rest and flavors meld and allow all the delicious magic to happen. But if you’re in a hurry and just need to get it in the oven, it will still taste delicious.
I’ve listed a basic socca recipe but feel free to add your favorite fresh chopped herbs, garlic, sautéed onions, shallots or garlic. I love it simply with rosemary, salt and pepper and eaten right out of the pan. Which is how I finally managed to photograph the socca. I suppose I could have fancied up the photo but socca is simple goodness and truly needs nothing fancy added. Maybe just hungry family members. 😉
Delicious Wishes and Loads of Love,
Karista
Socca (chickpea flatbread)
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpea flour (I use Bob's Red Mill)
- 3/4 cup - 1 cup lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or a mixture of fresh herbs or chives)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Whisk together the chickpea flour, 3/4 cup water (adding more for a thinner flatbread), salt, fresh herbs and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Let the batter sit for 15 minutes or covered in the fridge for about 2-3 hours or overnight if you're preparing for breakfast.
- When you are ready to bake the socca, pre-heat the oven to 425F. Place a 10 inch cast iron or iron skillet in the oven and let it pre-heat with the oven.
- When the oven is ready, carefully remove the pre-heated skillet and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the pan. Pour in the socca batter.
- Carefully place the skillet back in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until it's golden brown and a little cracked on top.
- Remove it from the oven and slice into 8 wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy!
How deliciously simple Karista! Love this recipe and so happy it is gluten free and dairy free. Sharing, or course!
You’re so welcome Bam! I miss bread so it’s nice to have this socca to use as a substitute. 🙂
What herbs do y recommend? Am trying this on my day off ,thanks
Hi Nancy, I typically use either a teaspoon or two of Italian dried herbs blend or I’ll use a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs from my garden, usually a combination of parsley, oregano and thyme. Sometimes rosemary if I’m in the mood. But, this being said, on occasion I’ve only used a teaspoon or two of fresh chopped thyme leaves and it was delicious. Enjoy! Karista