Rolls with Rosemary and Parmesan
Ingredients: 500 g flour, 200 ml warm water, 25 g yeast, 75 g butter, 25 g lard, 10 g salt, 50 g sugar, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary, 100 g parmesan, 1 egg for brushing
To prepare these delicious rolls, start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm water, mixing it with a teaspoon of sugar. This step will activate the yeast, and the dough will rise beautifully. In a large bowl, put the flour, then add the yeast mixture, the egg, and continue mixing. It is important to do this with a wooden spoon or by hand to achieve a smooth texture. Once the ingredients are combined, add the salt, freshly chopped rosemary, soft butter, and melted lard, mixing again.
When the dough becomes elastic and smooth, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, until it doubles in volume. This is the crucial stage, as the yeast will make the dough fluffy and airy. After the dough has risen, sprinkle a bit of flour on the work surface and roll it out into a rectangular sheet, being careful not to roll it too thin.
Evenly sprinkle the grated parmesan over the entire surface of the dough and, with your palms, gently press it in to incorporate it. This will add an intense flavor to your rolls. If you prefer smaller rolls, it’s a good idea to divide the dough into two, creating two smaller rectangles. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, then cut it into pieces about 2 centimeters long. These will become your fluffy rolls.
Place the cut pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough space between them to rise further. Let them rise for 15 minutes, lightly covering them with a towel. Before placing them in the oven, beat an egg and brush each roll with it to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the rolls for about 20 minutes or until they are beautifully browned.
In the end, you can choose to place the rolls upright or with the cut side up, giving them a rustic and appealing look. These rolls are delicious both warm and at room temperature, perfect for serving at a festive meal or simply as a savory snack. The flavors of rosemary and parmesan combine perfectly, and the fluffy texture will make each bite a true delight.
