South African Saffron Buns

Ingredients

In this South African adaptation of saffransbullar, we incorporate the vibrant flavors of South African cuisine. The original Swedish recipe is enhanced with local spices and ingredients, giving the buns a unique twist. The use of South African saffron adds a distinct flavor profile, while the addition of indigenous spices adds depth and complexity to the buns. We alse have the original recipe for Saffransbullar, 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 ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon South African saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon South African saffron threads
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (50g) raisins 1/4 cup (50g) raisins
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in warm milk for 10 minutes.
3. 3.
   In another small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
4. 4.
   Add the saffron-infused milk, melted butter, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 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 hour or until doubled in size.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins.
8. 8.
   Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bun.
9. 9.
   Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
10. 10.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
11. 11.
    Brush the buns with beaten egg wash.
12. 12.
    Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the buns are golden brown.
13. 13.
    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 aroma of saffron, crush the threads slightly before steeping them in warm milk. This will release the essential oils and intensify the taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili powder or ground cloves to the dough.
• Serve the saffron buns warm with a dollop of butter or cream cheese for an extra indulgence.
• If you prefer a sweeter bun, sprinkle some pearl sugar on top before baking.
• Experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a variation in flavors.
• These buns can be frozen and reheated in the oven for a quick and delicious treat.

Serving advice

Serve the South African Saffron Buns as a delightful addition to breakfast or brunch. They pair perfectly with a cup of Rooibos tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the saffron buns on a platter, allowing their golden color to shine. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or drizzle with a simple glaze made from icing sugar and lemon juice.