| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 3.2g | 0.5g | 50g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1.5g | 1.7g | 7.5g | 0.78g |
About Roosterkoek
If there’s a bread that warms the heart as much as it warms the house while baking, it has to be the South African delight known as Roosterkoek. Known for its heavenly aroma and unique taste, this bread holds a special place in South African cuisine, and around many a braai – South Africa’s beloved barbecue.
A Flavorful Trip to South Africa
Made with simple and easily accessible ingredients, this bread epitomizes the true joy of bread making. Plus, few things compare to the smell of this dough wafting through your home as it gently rises in anticipation of the oven. But what really makes Roosterkoek stand out from its bread brethren is its wonderful versatility. Whether you’re looking to serve it alongside your favorite stew, pair it with juicy meat at a barbecue or even make sandwiches with it, Roosterkoek is up to the task. With its lightly crusty outer layer and soft, fluffy interior, each bite is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together.
Rise of the Roosterkoek
Roosterkoek has long been a beloved bread in South Africa. Its presence is, indeed, a comforting sight at any gathering, particularly at braai, South Africa’s take on a barbecue. A typical sight at these gatherings would be Roosterkoek baking on a grid over the coals, primed and ready to accompany the variety of meats on the grill.
The name ‘Roosterkoek’, which literally translates to ‘grill cake’, is a nod to the traditional method of cooking this bread – atop the coals of a fire. Making it at home, you’d typically use an oven, but firing up a grill or barbecue would not only give you an authentic cooking experience, but also infuse the bread with smoky flavors!
The Ideal Pairings
As previously mentioned, Roosterkoek’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths. The neutral flavor profile of this bread makes it a fantastic companion for various other dishes. Serve it up with a hearty South African stew like Potjiekos, or use it as a base for Bobotie-laden sandwiches. It can also just be served warm, lightly buttered or with a spoonful of jam, making it a wonderful option for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
While it has its roots in South African cuisine, don’t let that limit you. Like similarly versatile breads such as Indian Naan or Middle Eastern Pita, the opportunities for culinary exploration with Roosterkoek are plenty.
So set the oven, get that dough ready, and transport your kitchen to the heart of a South African braai with homemade Roosterkoek. It’s a taste adventure you’ll wish you’d embarked on sooner.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 packet of instant yeast (approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 2 cups of lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Method
Step One
First, in a large bowl, combine the 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 packet of instant yeast (approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons).
Step Two
Then, make a well in the middle of your dry mixture of ingredients. Gradually pour in the 2 cups of lukewarm water while slowly stirring to combine all the ingredients. You’re aiming for a soft, wet dough.
Step Three
Next, cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place. This should take about 1 hour, or until your dough has doubled in size.
Step Four
After the dough has risen, dust your hands and your work surface with a little extra flour. Gently knead the dough for a few minutes.
Step Five
Divide the dough into roughly 12 equal portions, and shape each one into a round ball. This will form the overall shape of your Roosterkoek. Place these onto a baking tray lightly greased with the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
Step Six
Allow these to rise for another 20 minutes, or until they have doubled in size again. While waiting for these to rise, preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (or about 392 degrees Fahrenheit).
Step Seven
Bake the dough balls in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped at the bottom.
Step Eight
Finally, remove your Roosterkoek from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them hot, with butter, jam, or your choice of filling.
