Sri Lankan Spiced Bread Rolls

Ingredients

While the original Bolo do caco is a traditional Portuguese bread made with sweet potato and cooked on a hot stone, the Sri Lankan Spiced Bread Rolls have been adapted to incorporate the unique flavors and spices of Sri Lankan cuisine. The Sri Lankan version includes a blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, which give the rolls a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, the Sri Lankan rolls are baked in an oven instead of being cooked on a hot stone. We alse have the original recipe for Bolo do caco, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) sugar 10g (2 tsp) sugar
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 60ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil 60ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
7. 7.
   Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds over each roll.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Instant yeast — Make sure the yeast is fresh and active. If you're unsure, proof the yeast by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar and waiting for it to become frothy before adding it to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or finely chopped green chilies to the dough.
• Serve the rolls warm with a side of spicy chutney or curry for an authentic Sri Lankan experience.
• If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough.

Serving advice

Serve the Sri Lankan Spiced Bread Rolls as a snack or as a side dish with your favorite Sri Lankan curry or chutney. They are best enjoyed warm.

Presentation advice

Arrange the rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint. Serve them alongside a bowl of spicy chutney for dipping.