Chinese Aristocrat Poppy Seed Rolls

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the original Croatian Makovi külinji with Chinese aristocrat influences. The traditional Croatian recipe is transformed by incorporating Chinese flavors and techniques, resulting in a unique fusion dish. The poppy seed filling remains a key element, but the pastry is made lighter and fluffier, resembling the delicate texture favored by Chinese aristocracy. The addition of powdered sugar as a finishing touch adds an elegant touch to the rolls. We alse have the original recipe for Makovi külinji, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (100g) poppy seeds 1/2 cup (100g) poppy seeds
• 1/4 cup (50g) honey 1/4 cup (50g) honey
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (for dusting) 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (for dusting)

Nutrition

• Calories: 220 kcal / 920 kJ
• Fat: 8g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
• Carbohydrates: 33g (Sugar: 12g)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. 2.
   Pour the yeast mixture and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. 3.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   Meanwhile, prepare the poppy seed filling by grinding the poppy seeds in a food processor until finely ground. In a small saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, honey, water, and heavy cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough.
6. 6.
   Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into individual rolls, about 1 inch (2.5cm) thick. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Poppy seeds — Ensure that the poppy seeds are fresh and not expired to maintain their flavor. Grinding them just before using will yield the best results.
• Honey — Use a high-quality honey for a rich and aromatic taste in the filling.
• Milk — Warm the milk to the correct temperature to activate the yeast properly. Too hot or too cold milk can affect the dough's rise.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of luxury, sprinkle some crushed pistachios or almond slivers on top of the rolls before baking.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, add a tablespoon of sugar to the poppy seed mixture.
• Serve the rolls warm with a cup of Chinese jasmine tea for an authentic Chinese aristocrat experience.
• If you don't have poppy seeds, you can substitute them with black sesame seeds for a similar nutty flavor.
• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese Aristocrat Poppy Seed Rolls as a delightful breakfast or afternoon tea treat. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the rolls on a serving platter, dust them generously with powdered sugar, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of edible flowers for an elegant presentation.