Grandma’s Secret: Classic Dinner Rolls

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Old-fashioned dinner rolls, a comforting classic, are the canvas upon which we’ll paint a masterpiece of flavor. Today, we embark on a culinary journey, seamlessly blending the familiar with the exotic. Our destination: a dish that celebrates the harmony of diverse culinary traditions.

Ingredients:

For the Rolls:

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

  • Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls Recipe
    Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls Recipe

    Image Source: simplylakita.com

    For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Preparation:

    Step 1: Proof the Yeast
    1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.

    Step 2: Mix the Dough
    1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
    2. Add the proofed yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg to the flour mixture.
    3. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a dough forms.
    4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

    Step 3: First Rise
    1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

    Step 4: Shape the Rolls
    1. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
    2. Shape each piece into a round ball and place on a greased baking sheet.
    3. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

    Step 5: Bake the Rolls
    1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

    Step 6: Glaze (Optional)
    1. While the rolls are still warm, brush with the melted butter, honey, and vanilla mixture.

    Total Time: 2-3 hours

    Serving Ideas:

    Classic Comfort: Serve warm with butter and your favorite jam.

  • Elevated Elegance: Pair with a creamy soup or a light salad.
  • Global Fusion: Experiment with different glazes, such as a spicy chili glaze or a sweet and savory soy glaze.

  • A Symphony of Cultures

    The humble dinner roll, a staple in many cultures, is a testament to the power of simplicity. Our recipe draws inspiration from various culinary traditions, each contributing its unique flavor and texture. The yeast-risen dough, a technique perfected over centuries, provides a fluffy and airy base. The glaze, a touch of sweetness, adds a delightful contrast.

    As we savor these golden-brown rolls, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of cultures and the beauty of culinary diversity. Each bite is a journey through time and space, a celebration of the human spirit’s creativity and ingenuity.