Fluffy Potato Dinner Rolls

Preparation Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Intensity: Intermediate

Ingredients:

• 1 medium potato (about 8 ounces), peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 tablespoon melted butter for brushing (optional)
• Sea salt or sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potato:
   • Place the peeled and cubed potato in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potato is fork-tender, then drain and mash it until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly.
3. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the mashed potato, melted butter, warmed milk, sugar, salt, beaten egg, and activated yeast mixture.
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead the dough using the dough hook attachment of your stand mixer for 5-7 minutes on medium speed.
5. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Rolls:
   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
   • Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a smooth round ball. Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
7. Second Rise:
   • Cover the shaped rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up and expand.
8. Preheat and Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls are rising.
   • Optionally, brush the risen rolls with melted butter and sprinkle them with sea salt or sesame seeds for topping.
   • Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the fluffy potato dinner rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
   • Enjoy the rolls warm with butter or as a side to your favorite dishes.

Note:

• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven briefly before serving to revive their freshness.