Rustic Olive Bread Rolls

Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the water with the dry instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the yeast to activate.
Mix the Dough:
Add the bread flour, salt, and sugar to the bowl with the yeast and water mixture.
Using a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer or by hand, mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Add the chopped olives and knead until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. If using a mixer, knead on medium speed for about 8-10 minutes. By hand, knead for 10-12 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Divide the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide it into 10 equal pieces, approximately 85g each.
Shape the Rolls:
Shape each piece of dough into a ball by pulling the edges towards the center and tucking them underneath to create a smooth top.
Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.
Second Rise:
Cover the rolls loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
Bake the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Bake the rolls for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
Serve and Enjoy:
These rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven. They make a great accompaniment to soups, salads, or a cheese platter.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 150 kcal
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 2 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 280 mg
Sugar: 1 g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of olives? Absolutely! You can use black, green, or kalamata olives for different flavors. Just make sure they are pitted and roughly chopped before adding to the dough.
How do I prevent the olives from sticking out of the dough? Make sure to incorporate the olives evenly into the dough. Try to tuck any exposed olives back into the dough to avoid them burning during baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then cover it and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before dividing, shaping, and baking.
What can I serve these rolls with? These rolls pair well with soups, salads, pasta, and cheese platters. They’re also delicious on their own with a drizzle of olive oil or a spread of butter.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking? The rolls should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, you can use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 200°F (93°C).
Tips for Making the Best Olive Bread Rolls
Use Quality Olives: High-quality, briny olives add a depth of flavor to these rolls. Rinse them briefly if they’re very salty before adding to the dough.
Let the Dough Rise Properly: Allowing the dough to rise fully during both the first and second rises results in soft and airy rolls. Avoid rushing this process.
Knead Well: Proper kneading develops the gluten structure, giving the bread a good texture and chew. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
Bake at High Temperature: The high temperature helps create a golden, crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Customize with Herbs: For extra flavor, add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. Fresh herbs pair wonderfully with olives.
Storage Tips
In the Refrigerator: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Warm them slightly in the oven before serving.
In the Freezer: These rolls freeze well. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
These Rustic Olive Bread Rolls are easy to make and bursting with the rich flavor of olives, creating a delightful bread with a slightly chewy texture and golden crust. Perfect as a side or on their own, they add a rustic, homemade touch to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these rolls are a go-to recipe for anyone looking to make fresh bread at home. Whether served with a meal or enjoyed alone with olive oil, these rolls are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the warmth, aroma, and flavor of freshly baked olive rolls in every bite!