Westphalian Barley Roll

Description and History

The Westphalian Barley Roll is a traditional dish hailing from the Westphalian region of Germany, known for its rich culinary heritage. This hearty dish reflects the agricultural abundance and the rustic lifestyle of the Westphalia area. Barley, a core component, has been a staple in this region for centuries. Historically, barley was used in various dishes due to its easy cultivation and nutritional value.Westphalia itself is known for its green landscapes and rich soil, making it ideal for farming. Westphalian Barley Rolls encapsulate the essence of that era, combining simple yet nourishing ingredients that were readily available to the local folks.

Ingredients

• Barley - 200g
• All-purpose flour - 150g
• Milk - 250ml
• Yeast - 1 packet (7g)
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Butter - 50g
• Egg - 1, beaten
• Bacon - 100g, diced
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Carrots - 100g, grated

Preparation

1. Rinse the barley thoroughly under cold water.

2. In a medium saucepan, bring 500ml of water to boil. Add the rinsed barley and cook for about 30 minutes until the barley is tender. This can be timed using a cooking timer. Once cooked, drain any excess water and set aside to cool.

3. While the barley is cooking, combine the milk and sugar in a small saucepan and warm gently until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and sprinkle the yeast over the surface. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled barley, flour, activated yeast mixture, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

5. Melt the butter and mix it with the beaten egg. Add this mixture to the dough and mix until well incorporated.

6. On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Return it to a clean, greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

7. Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and grated carrots until they are softened and slightly caramelized.

8. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

Cooking Process

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1cm thick.

2. Evenly spread the cooked bacon, onion, and carrots mixture over the dough.

3. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.

4. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange these pieces flat side down on a greased baking tray.

5. Cover the tray with a damp cloth and let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes.

6. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Set a cooking timer to keep track.

Serving Suggestions

Allow the Westphalian Barley Rolls to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and can be served with a dollop of butter or a side of wholesome soup. Pair with a hearty German lager for an authentic Westphalian experience. Whether as a delicious snack or as part of a larger meal, these rolls are sure to delight with their rich flavors and comforting textures.