(1) Japanese Sourdough Hot Dog Buns
Ingredients
* 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
* 1 cup warm water (110°F)
* ½ cup sourdough starter
* 4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
* 1 large egg beaten
Instructions
1. Dissolve the yeast in warm water (110°F) and let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. Combine the bubbly yeast mixture with sourdough starter, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well blended.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough gently to release the air, then divide into 10 equal pieces and shape into oval buns.
7. Arrange the shaped buns on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat your oven to 375°F and brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
10. Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
