Soft, fluffy, and brushed with a fragrant garlic-herb dressing, these Ukrainian garlic rolls, called locally Pampushki are the perfect companion to a warm bowl of borscht or pretty much any soup or stew.
2tbspsunflower oil(or any vegetable oil; unrefined sunflower oil is traditional)
1tspsalt
2tbspwater
2-3clovesgarlicminced
a small bunchdill or parsleychopped
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until a frothy layer forms on top.
Make the Dough:
In a deep bowl, sift the flour with a pinch of salt, add the warm milk, activated yeast, and vegetable oil, and knead the dough.
Place the dough in the bowl, and brush the surface with vegetable oil.
Cover with a towel and leave in a warm place for 30-60 minutes until it rises.
Shape the Rolls & Bake
Divide the dough into 12-14 balls. Grease the baking dish with vegetable oil and place the dough balls in it. Cover and leave for 15-20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 190ºC (380°F). Whisk the egg yolk with 2 tbsp of water to make an egg wash. Brush the rolls with the egg wash.
Bake the buns for 30-35 minutes in the preheated oven at 190ºC (380°F).
Make the Garlic Dressing:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, mix the oil, salt, water, and minced garlic. Stir in the chopped dill or parsley and mix well.
Dress and Serve:
Remove the pampushki from the oven and drizzle with the garlic dressing. Let them cool slightly and serve with a delicious bowl of red borscht.