why make this recipe
Whole wheat sourdough dinner rolls are a nourishing and delicious choice for your meals. They bring a lovely, rustic flavor and a soft texture that everyone loves. Using whole wheat flour adds extra fiber and nutrients, making these rolls a healthier option for family gatherings, dinner parties, or even a simple weeknight meal.
how to make Whole Wheat Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Making whole wheat sourdough dinner rolls is straightforward and rewarding. You will need some basic ingredients and a bit of time for the dough to rise. This recipe leverages the natural fermentation of sourdough to create fluffy and flavorful rolls that are free from store-bought yeast.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 1/2 cups active sourdough starter (258 grams)
- 458 grams hard white wheat (freshly milled in a grain mill)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup sunflower oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 Tbsp water (for egg wash)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix the warm water with the active sourdough starter. Stir until combined.
- Add the freshly milled hard white wheat, honey, sunflower oil, eggs, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise for 4-6 hours at room temperature, or until doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Arrange the dough balls on a greased baking sheet. Cover them and let them rise again for about 1-2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk together the remaining egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the rolls.
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Whole Wheat Sourdough Dinner Rolls
These rolls are best served warm. They pair wonderfully with butter, honey, or your favorite dipping sauces. You can serve them alongside soups, salads, or any main dish. They make a perfect addition to holiday meals or casual weeknight dinners.
how to store Whole Wheat Sourdough Dinner Rolls
To store your dinner rolls, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze them by wrapping each roll tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw and warm them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
tips to make Whole Wheat Sourdough Dinner Rolls
- Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour while kneading.
- Allow enough time for each rise; this is crucial for fluffy rolls.
- Experiment with different add-ins like herbs or cheese for unique flavors.
variation
For a sweeter twist, you can add raisins or dried cranberries to the dough before the second rise. You can also sprinkle some seeds or toppings of your choice on top before baking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the rolls may not be as nutritious or have the same flavor.
Q: How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?
A: Your starter should be bubbly and have doubled in size within a few hours of feeding.
Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the rolls and freeze them. Just bake them from frozen when you are ready to enjoy.
Whole Wheat Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- ½ cup warm water
- 1 ½ cups active sourdough starter (258 grams)
- 458 grams hard white wheat (freshly milled in a grain mill)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup sunflower oil
- 2 pieces eggs
- 1 tsp salt
Egg Wash Ingredients
- 1 piece egg
- 1 Tbsp water
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix the warm water with the active sourdough starter. Stir until combined.
- Add the freshly milled hard white wheat, honey, sunflower oil, eggs, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise for 4-6 hours at room temperature, or until doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Arrange the dough balls on a greased baking sheet. Cover them and let them rise again for about 1-2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Baking
- Whisk together the remaining egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the rolls.
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
