Sourdough Dinner Rolls: A Simple Recipe

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Imagine a dinner roll, not just any dinner roll, but a masterpiece that dances on your palate, a symphony of flavors from around the globe. A creation that pays homage to centuries-old traditions while embracing modern culinary techniques. This is the Sourdough Dinner Roll Reinvented, a dish that transcends the ordinary and elevates the everyday.

Ingredients:

1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

    • Soft Sourdough Dinner Rolls
    Soft Sourdough Dinner Rolls

    Image Source: homegrownhappiness.com

    Preparation Process:

    1. Activate the Starter: In a medium bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, salt, sugar, warm water, olive oil, dried herbs, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Mix until a dough forms.
    2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
    3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
    4. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round roll and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    5. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are slightly puffy.
    6. Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
    7. Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.

    Total Time: Approximately 3-4 hours

    Serving Ideas:

    Classic: Serve the rolls warm with butter and your favorite jam or honey.

  • Elevated: Pair the rolls with a hearty soup or chili.
  • Gourmet: Top the rolls with garlic butter and fresh herbs, or drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
  • Global Fusion: Experiment with different toppings, such as crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries, or spicy harissa paste and olives.

    • Cultural Influences:

    The Sourdough Dinner Roll Reinvented is a fusion of culinary traditions from around the world. The sourdough starter, a cornerstone of bread-making, has its roots in ancient Egypt. The herbs and spices used in the recipe reflect the diverse flavors of the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The Parmesan cheese adds a touch of Italian elegance, while the red pepper flakes bring a hint of heat.

    This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary creativity. By blending together different cultural influences, we can create dishes that are both familiar and exciting. The Sourdough Dinner Roll Reinvented is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that invites us to savor the richness of our culinary heritage.