Tajik-inspired Sweet Bread Rolls

Ingredients

While the original Maltese Qagħqa tal-appostli is typically made with ingredients like aniseed and orange blossom water, this Tajik-inspired version incorporates saffron and honey to infuse the bread with a distinct flavor. The use of saffron adds a vibrant golden color to the rolls, while the honey provides a subtle sweetness that complements the saffron beautifully. We alse have the original recipe for Qagħqa tal-appostli, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp saffron threads 1 tsp saffron threads
• 2 tbsp warm water 2 tbsp warm water
• 250ml (1 cup) milk 250ml (1 cup) milk
• 80g (1/4 cup) honey 80g (1/4 cup) honey
• 60g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted 60g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in warm water for 10 minutes to release their flavor and color.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate saucepan, heat the milk until warm. Remove from heat and stir in the honey, melted butter, and saffron mixture.
4. 4.
   Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into equal-sized portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. 10.
    Brush the rolls with beaten egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
11. 11.
    Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and color of saffron, soak the threads in warm water before using them in the recipe.
• Honey — Use a good quality honey to ensure a rich and natural sweetness in the bread rolls.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced saffron flavor, crush the soaked saffron threads before adding them to the dough.
• Serve the bread rolls warm with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the amount of honey in the recipe.
• These rolls can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Warm them slightly before serving to enjoy their softness.

Serving advice

Serve these Tajik-inspired sweet bread rolls as a delightful breakfast treat or enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee. They are best served warm, either on their own or with a drizzle of honey.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden bread rolls on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The vibrant color of the saffron-infused rolls will make them visually appealing. Serve them alongside a pot of tea or coffee for an inviting presentation.