Sourdough Wheat Buds

A Special Bread for a Special Day

These hot wheat buns are a wonderful way to share a special bread with loved ones during the Great Day of Prayer or any time you want to create a warm and comforting atmosphere. The subtle sweetness and hint of cardamom make them truly irresistible.

The Magic of Sourdough

Using sourdough gives these buns a depth of flavor that you just can't get with commercial yeast. The long fermentation process also makes the bread easier to digest.

Recipe: Hot Wheat Sourdough Buns (Wheat Buds)

Ingredients:

• 370g wheat flour
• 30g spelt flour
• 260g water (or milk for a richer flavor)
• 40g sugar
• 10g salt
• 175g dry 50% sourdough starter (whole glass – see video for instructions)
• 6 whole cardamom capsules

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sourdough: The key to these delicious buns is a well-prepared sourdough starter. We recommend preparing your starter a day in advance. (See our video for a detailed guide on maintaining your sourdough starter.)
2. Mixing the Dough: In a bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine all the ingredients. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. You can knead by hand or use a mixer. (Our video demonstrates hand-kneading, but machine mixing works equally well.)
3. Shaping and Rising: Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape them into round buns. Place the buns in a greased baking dish, allowing them some space to rise and grow together. Let the buns rise until they have increased in volume by 30-40%. This may take some time, depending on the temperature in your kitchen.
4. Baking: Preheat your oven to 240 degrees Celsius (464 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the baking dish with the buns in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 220 degrees Celsius (428 degrees Fahrenheit). Bake the buns for 18-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Baking time may vary depending on your oven.

Tips for Success

• Sourdough Starter: A healthy and active sourdough starter is essential. Refer to our video for tips on maintaining your starter.
• Rising Time: Be patient with the rising process. The buns need sufficient time to rise and become light and airy.
• Oven Temperature: Keep a close eye on the buns while they are baking and adjust the baking time as needed.

Serving Suggestions

These hot wheat sourdough buns are best served warm. They are delicious on their own or with butter, jam, or your favorite spread. They are a perfect accompaniment to any meal, especially during the Great Day of Prayer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is a "dry 50% starter"? See video for more
• Can I use milk instead of water? Yes, using milk will create a richer, softer bun.
• How do I know when the buns are done? The buns should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Conclusion

These hot wheat sourdough buns are a delicious and meaningful addition to your Great Day of Prayer celebrations or any gathering. With a little practice, you'll be baking these delightful buns like a pro!