| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 309 | 6g | 1g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 7g | 0.35g |
About Gluten-Free Roosterkoek
Imagine taking a bite out of traditional South African bread, but with a twist. This is the Gluten-Free Roosterkoek, a bread that not only satiates your hunger, but also makes you relish every single bite. Originating from South Africa, this gluten-free variant of the popular Roosterkoek brings the healthy balance of taste and nutrition to your table.
From Traditional Bread to a Healthier Alternative
The original Roosterkoek, a staple in Southern African cuisines, is a rich, doughy bread traditionally cooked on a grid over open flames. Our take on this dish – the Gluten-Free Roosterkoek – is designed for those who are health conscious or have dietary restrictions. This bread recipe uses a wholesome blend of brown rice flour, tapioca flour, and cornstarch to replace the typical wheat flour base, resulting in a delicious gluten-free bread.
The Flavor Profile
The Gluten-Free Roosterkoek is not just about healthier ingredients. The delicate balance of its components gives this bread a slightly sweet and creamy flavor, thanks to the sugar and milk powder. Add to it the hint of salt, and you have a bread that is flavorful and perfect to complement any meal. The texture, on the other hand, is light and fluffy, courtesy of the yeast and warm water that helps the bread to rise despite being gluten-free.
Perfect Pairings
Being a traditional South African bread, it pairs wonderfully well with stews and braised meats, much like the South African Lamb Bobotie. Imagine mopping up a hearty stew with a piece of our Gluten-Free Roosterkoek, or using it to make delicious pulled pork sandwiches. The options are endless!
This gluten-free bread could also serve as a wonderful breakfast option. Just imagine spreading a generous amount of your favorite homemade jam over a slice, or pairing it with creamy avocado pasta for a light dinner – mouthwatering, isn’t it?
Unearthing a Cultural Gem
In essence, with Gluten-Free Roosterkoek, we are identifying an age-old recipe and unearthing a cultural gem from amongst a sea of typical breads, making it accessible and enjoyable to people with gluten-free dietary needs. This bread has not just the tendency to transport you back to the heart of Africa with every bite, but also makes you part of a healthier lifestyle shift.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons yeast
- 2 cups brown rice flour
- 1 cup tapioca flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup milk powder
- 2 teaspoons xanthan gum
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 3 large eggs
Method
Step One
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 cup of warm water until the sugar has dissolved. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is frothy.
Step Two
In a large bowl, mix together the 2 cups of brown rice flour, 1 cup of tapioca flour, 1 cup of cornstarch, 1/2 cup of milk powder, 2 teaspoons of xanthan gum, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Three
Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour the yeast mixture, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 1/2 cups of warm water and eggs into the well. Combine all the ingredients together until you have a dough that is sticky but able to hold its shape.
Step Four
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal parts. Shape each portion into a round ball and place them onto a baking sheet, leaving enough room for them to expand.
Step Five
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius. While the oven is heating, cover the dough balls with a damp cloth and let them rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes until they have doubled in size.
Step Six
Once the dough balls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown. They should sound hollow when you tap them on the bottom. Once baked, let the Roosterkoek cool on a wire rack.
Step Seven
Your Gluten-Free Roosterkoek is now ready to be enjoyed! They can be served warm with butter and jam or with any filling of your choice.
