Watermelon-Infused Japanese-Style Bread Rolls
What Started it all:
Warm Water, Melted Butter, Malt Syrup, Kosher Salt, Flour, Egg Wash, Coarse Salt, Watermelon Juice,
These delightful Japanese-style bread rolls are light, fluffy, and infused with a hint of watermelon juice, making them a refreshing treat. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe encourages everyone to join in the fun of cooking together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons malt syrup
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for sprinkling)
- 1/2 cup watermelon juice (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, malt syrup, and kosher salt. Stir gently to dissolve. If using active dry yeast, sprinkle it over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: Add the melted butter and watermelon juice to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes, until puffy.
- Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls for a beautiful golden color. Sprinkle coarse salt on top.
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, and enjoy them fresh with your favorite toppings or just on their own!
These watermelon-infused Japanese-style bread rolls are not only a fun cooking project but also a delicious way to bring family and friends together. Enjoy the process of baking, and relish the delightful flavors that come from using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Happy cooking!