Raised Rolls Recipe

History and Fun Facts about Raised Rolls:

Raised rolls, also known as yeast rolls, have been a staple in households for centuries. This bread-like delicacy originated in ancient Egypt, where the Egyptians used wild yeast from the air to leaven their bread. However, the technique of using commercial yeast to make raised rolls did not become popular until the 19th century.

One interesting fact about raised rolls is that they have different names in various regions. In the United Kingdom, they are commonly referred to as "buns," while in the United States, they are known as "rolls" or "yeast rolls." They are often served as a side dish with meals, especially during holidays or special occasions.

Similar to raised rolls, there are other dishes made with yeast that have become popular in different cultures. For example, the French have their famous "croissants" made with laminated dough, while the Italians enjoy "ciabatta" bread with its soft and chewy texture.

Now, let's dive into a delicious recipe for raised rolls!

Recipe for Raised Rolls:

Ingredients:
- 2 quarts of sifted flour
- 1 pint of boiled milk (lukewarm)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1/2 cup of mixed butter and lard
- 3/4 cake of compressed yeast (or 3/4 cup of yeast)
- 1 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1. At 5 o'clock P.M., set the sponge by combining half or three-fourths of the flour with all the other ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until a sticky dough is formed. Cover the bowl and let it stand in a warm place until morning. This step allows the yeast to activate and ferment, giving the rolls their light and fluffy texture.

2. About 9 o'clock in the evening, it's time to knead the dough. Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading until a smooth and elastic dough is formed. Kneading is an essential step as it develops gluten in the dough, which gives the rolls structure and volume.

3. Once the dough is kneaded, cover it again and let it stand in a warm place overnight. This allows the dough to rise and develop its flavor.

4. In the morning, take the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 3/4 of an inch thick. Using a round cutter, cut the dough into small rolls.

5. Place the rolls in baking pans, making sure they are far enough apart to allow room for rising. It's essential to give the rolls enough space so that they don't touch each other during baking.

6. Cover the pans with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise until they are quite light. The time will vary depending on the room temperature, but it usually takes around 1-2 hours.

7. Preheat the oven to the appropriate temperature for baking rolls. Generally, it is recommended to bake raised rolls at around 375°F (190°C).

8. Once the rolls have risen and the oven is preheated, it's time to bake them. Place the pans in the oven and bake until the rolls turn a delicate brown color. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes.

9. Optional step for a glaze: To give the rolls a rich, brown glaze, you can brush a mixture of one egg yolk, one tablespoon of milk, and one teaspoon of sugar on top of each roll before baking.

10. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these freshly baked raised rolls as a delightful addition to any meal!

In conclusion, raised rolls have a rich history and are enjoyed by many people around the world. Whether you call them rolls, buns, or yeast rolls, they are a versatile and delicious bread option. Experiment with different variations by adding ingredients like raisins, cheese, or herbs to make them even more flavorful. So go ahead and impress your family and friends with these homemade, fluffy, and fragrant raised rolls!

Similar recipe dishes that use yeast include cinnamon rolls, dinner rolls, and sweet buns, each with its unique flavors and shapes. Try exploring these recipes to expand your baking repertoire and discover the wonderful world of yeast-based delights!