Rustic Crusty Bread Rolls

Rustic Crusty Bread Rolls

Ingredients:

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 3/4 cups warm water (110°F)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Extra flour for dusting

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
– In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
– Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
– Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

2. **First rise:**
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
– Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

3. **Shape the rolls:**
– Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
– Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round roll by pulling the edges toward the center and pinching them together. Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Dust the tops of the rolls lightly with flour and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

4. **Second rise:**
– Let the rolls rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have almost doubled in size.

5. **Preheat Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking dish filled with water on the lower rack of the oven to create steam.

6. **Bake the rolls:**
– Before baking, use a sharp knife or a bread lame to make a few slashes on the top of each roll.
– Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
– For an extra-crusty texture, you can spray the rolls with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.

7. **Cool and serve:**
– Allow the rolls to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your homemade rustic crusty bread rolls!