These delectable potato rolls draw inspiration from Eastern European baking traditions, where humble ingredients transform into extraordinary delicacies. The combination of a pillowy yeast dough and savory potato filling creates an irresistible appetizer that bridges comfort food and elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 720g (5¾ cups) type 00 flour
- 400ml (1⅔ cups) warm milk
- 100ml (⅓ cup) warm water
- 100ml (⅓ cup) neutral seed oil
- 10g (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 40g (3 tablespoons) granulated sugar
- 8g (1½ teaspoons) salt
For the Potato Filling
- 600g (3 medium) potatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 50ml (3½ tablespoons) olive oil
- 15g (1 tablespoon) tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red chili flakes, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg yolk
- 5ml (1 teaspoon) oil
Time Requirements
- Dough Preparation: 15 minutes
- First Rise: 1 hour
- Filling Preparation: 30 minutes
- Assembly: 20 minutes
- Second Rise: 15 minutes
- Baking: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Yeasted Dough
- Activate Yeast
- Combine warm milk and water (38°C/100°F)
- Dissolve yeast and sugar
- Let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy
- Form Dough
- Add seed oil to liquid mixture
- Gradually incorporate flour and salt
- Knead 3-4 minutes until smooth
- Form into ball
- First Rise
- Place in oiled bowl
- Cover with damp cloth
- Let rise 1 hour or until doubled
Creating the Potato Filling
- Cook Potatoes
- Peel and cube potatoes
- Boil until tender
- Drain thoroughly
- Prepare Aromatics
- Sauté onion in olive oil until golden
- Add tomato paste
- Cook 2-3 minutes until darkened
- Combine Filling
- Mash potatoes
- Fold in onion mixture
- Season with salt, pepper, chili
- Add fresh parsley
- Cool completely
Assembly and Baking
- Divide and Shape
- Portion dough into 18 pieces
- Roll each into 15x20cm rectangle
- Spread with cooled filling
- Roll into cylinders
- Final Rise and Bake
- Arrange on parchment-lined baking sheet
- Rest 15 minutes
- Brush with egg wash
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes
Nutritional Information
Per roll:
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
Professional Tips
- Temperature Control
- Use precisely warmed liquids for optimal yeast activation
- Ensure room temperature for proper rising
- Monitor oven temperature for consistent baking
- Texture Management
- Avoid overworking dough
- Ensure potatoes are well-drained
- Cool filling completely before assembly
- Quality Enhancement
- Use floury potatoes for best texture
- Choose high-quality flour for optimal results
- Ensure even distribution of filling
Variations and Substitutions
- Filling Adaptations
- Add sautéed mushrooms
- Incorporate caramelized onions
- Include grated cheese
- Dietary Modifications
- Use plant-based milk
- Replace egg wash with oil
- Substitute gluten-free flour blend
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, shape and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Q: Why didn’t my dough rise properly?
A: Check yeast freshness and liquid temperature. Ensure proper ambient temperature during rising.
Q: Can I freeze these rolls?
A: Yes, freeze after shaping but before final rise. Thaw overnight before baking.
Q: How do I achieve the perfect golden crust?
A: Apply egg wash evenly and ensure proper oven temperature before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Short-Term Storage
- Store cooled rolls at room temperature up to 2 days
- Reheat briefly before serving
- Keep in airtight container
Long-Term Storage
- Freeze baked rolls up to 2 months
- Wrap individually for convenience
- Thaw at room temperature
Make-Ahead Strategies
- Prepare filling day before
- Mix dough night before, refrigerate
- Shape and freeze for future use
These versatile rolls combine the comfort of traditional baking with sophisticated presentation, making them perfect for various occasions from casual gatherings to formal events. Their make-ahead capability and freezer-friendly nature add practical appeal to their delicious taste.
