Say Goodbye to Store-Bought: How to Make French Bread Sandwich Rolls that Rival Bakeries

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of freshly baked French bread sandwich rolls, a culinary masterpiece that will elevate your sandwiches to a whole new level. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll master the art of creating these delectable rolls from scratch, ensuring a perfect balance of crusty exterior and soft, airy interior.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy and active.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

3. Make the Dough: Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. The dough will be sticky at first.

4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Punch Down and Shape: Punch down the dough to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape into rolls. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.

8. Preheat Oven and Score: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Use a sharp knife to score the tops of the rolls.

9. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

10. Let Cool: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect French Bread Sandwich Rolls:

• Use high-quality bread flour for a better rise and texture.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can result in tough rolls.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for optimal expansion.
• Score the rolls before baking to allow for even expansion and a crispy crust.
• Bake the rolls at a high temperature for a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.
• If you don’t have a bread machine, you can knead the dough by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
• Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

The Art of the Sandwich:

Now that you’ve mastered the craft of making French bread sandwich rolls, it’s time to explore the endless possibilities they offer. From classic fillings like ham and cheese to more adventurous combinations like pulled pork and coleslaw, these rolls provide a versatile canvas for your culinary creations.

Elevate Your Meals with French Bread Sandwich Rolls:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast sandwich filled with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
• Lunch: Pack a satisfying lunch with a turkey and avocado sandwich, complete with a side of chips.
• Dinner: Elevate your dinner with a gourmet burger served on a toasted French bread sandwich roll.
• Snacks: Enjoy a quick and easy snack with a ham and Swiss cheese sandwich.

FAQs:

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in this recipe. Reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon (2g) and add it directly to the flour mixture.

2. How can I make the rolls more flavorful?

Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. You can also brush the rolls with melted butter before baking to enhance their flavor.

3. Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.