Sicilian Mafalde Bread Rolls
Category: Leavened Breads | Servings: 6
Sicilian Mafalde are a delightful, rustic bread with a rich texture, an unmistakable flavor, and a hint of sesame seeds. Originating from Sicily, this homemade bread is perfect as an accompaniment to any meal or for a snack on its own. The recipe involves preparing a biga (a type of starter dough), followed by careful mixing and shaping. After baking, the result is a light, golden-brown bread that you can easily break apart and enjoy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Semola di grano duro rimacinata (durum wheat semolina) | 100g |
| Water | 70g |
| Active dry yeast | 3g |
| Semola di grano duro rimacinata (durum wheat semolina) | 250g |
| Water | 150g |
| Active dry yeast | 1g |
| Fine salt | 6g |
| Sesame seeds | As needed (q.b.) |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Biga (Starter Dough)
To begin making the Sicilian Mafalde, first prepare the biga. In a bowl, combine 100g of durum wheat semolina and 3g of active dry yeast. Slowly add 70g of water, mixing until the ingredients are well combined. Once the dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and leave it to rise in a warm, draft-free area (such as the oven with the light on) for at least 3 hours. The gentle warmth encourages the yeast to activate and develop flavor.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
After the biga has rested, transfer it to a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook. Add the remaining 250g of semolina and 1g of dry yeast to the biga. Gradually add 150g of lukewarm water in a thin stream while the mixer is running. Continue mixing until the dough forms a cohesive ball and clings to the dough hook.
Step 3: Adding Salt
Once the dough has come together, add 6g of fine salt and continue mixing for an additional 3-4 minutes. This will fully incorporate the salt into the dough and improve its texture.
Step 4: Kneading and Shaping
Remove the dough from the mixer and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough by hand for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you want, you can perform a strengthening fold by folding the edges of the dough toward the center and then folding it over itself.
Once kneaded, shape the dough into a round ball, or “pirlare” the dough by gently rolling it between your hands to form a sphere. Place the ball of dough in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for another 2-3 hours, again in a warm environment.
Step 5: Shaping the Mafalde
After the dough has risen, transfer it to a clean surface. Roll the dough into a long, even rope (filone) about 60 cm long, ensuring that the thickness is consistent along its entire length.
Next, form the mafalde by shaping the rope into a coil or serpentine. To achieve the traditional mafalda shape, take the right end of the rope and gently stretch it along the serpentine until the dough is halved. Repeat this process for the rest of the dough, keeping the pieces covered with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out as you work.
Step 6: Adding the Sesame Seeds
Once all the mafalde shapes have been formed, lightly brush each piece with water to help the sesame seeds stick. Roll each mafalda in sesame seeds, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 7: Final Rise and Baking
Place the sesame-coated mafalde on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another hour.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F). Place a small pan of water in the bottom of the oven to create steam, which helps develop a crisp crust on the bread.
After the final rise, place the mafalde in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the pan of water and lower the oven temperature to 200°C (390°F). Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the mafalde are golden brown and fully baked.
Step 8: Cooling and Serving
Once the mafalde are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Break apart a mafalda while still warm and enjoy its fresh, airy texture, with a delicious, slightly nutty flavor from the sesame seeds.
These Sicilian Mafalde are perfect for any occasion—whether served with a savory dip, alongside pasta dishes, or enjoyed on their own as a hearty snack. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade bread, baked to perfection!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Sugars | 0g |
Note: The nutritional information is based on one serving of the bread and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Enjoy your homemade Sicilian Mafalde—these bread rolls are sure to add a special touch to any meal!
