fougassa

Fougassa is a traditional sweet bread originating from the Catalonia region of Spain, particularly associated with the city of Girona. It is typically prepared during the Easter season and is a common festive treat. The bread is characterized by its sweet dough, often enriched with eggs, butter, and sugar, giving it a rich and slightly dense texture.

The distinctive feature of fougassa is its decoration. It is traditionally shaped by hand into various forms, often resembling a star or a flower, with arms or petals that are then twisted or folded. A common practice is to embed whole or halved hard-boiled eggs within the dough before baking, which remain uncooked and are then revealed once the bread is sliced. These eggs are often left in their shells, adding to the rustic charm of the pastry.

The flavor profile of fougassa is subtly sweet, with hints of citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, sometimes added to the dough for aroma and a touch of brightness. It can also incorporate ingredients like cinnamon or aniseed, depending on regional variations and family recipes. Fougassa is usually enjoyed as a dessert or a special breakfast bread during the Easter holidays, symbolizing rebirth and fertility. While its origins are deeply rooted in Catalan tradition, similar sweet breads with embedded eggs can be found in other Mediterranean cultures.