Look at them! This was a total experiment, but I wanted to document anyway in case they worked out. And they worked out!
You should try making them! The stirring of the dough (100 times in the same direction) sounds like a lot, but it goes by in about a minute. It’s captivating to watch the gluten form and stretch and get webby right in the bowl. It’s a slight project recipe, but jot this down for your chilly weekend and you’ll be amazed. I’m serious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup warm milk (I used 2%)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 tsp)
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt dissolved in 3 Tbs. Warm water
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the water, milk and yeast. Stir together, then add the flour. With a wooden spoon, slowly mix the dough 100 times in the same direction. It doesn’t take long at all and it’s so fascinating to watch! The gluten activates and your jaw drops. Cover with plastic wrap and let this sit for an hour and a half. Warm spot preferred.
- At this point the dough has risen dramatically. You’ll sprinkle the dissolved salty water over the dough and stir 25 more times in the same direction. The dough collapses and mixes with the water. Cover again and let it sit about an hour. It will rise again and the bubbles will deliver that texture you want.
- Tip the dough onto a floured work surface, and use your wet hands to form a large mound. Use a bench scraper to divide the dough into 8 or 9 muffin-size pieces. It will be very wet, so adding a little flour may help. Use your hands to form each dough round into the shape of a muffin, pressing down a little. Then sprinkle semolina or cornmeal over the top for that grainy texture.
- Preheat a large wide skillet over medium low. Add a Tbs. Butter to the pan. Once melted, add three or four muffin rounds to the pan and cook for 6 minutes. Check for browning underneath. Once golden brown, flip and cook another six minutes. Let the muffins rest while you cook the remaining.
- Fork open and toast before adding any toppings you desire!
- Makes about 8 or 9 muffins.
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