I. What is Parker House Roll?
Parker House Roll is a type of yeast bread roll that is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet. It is typically made by folding the dough in half before baking, resulting in a distinctive shape with a soft, fluffy interior and a slightly crispy exterior. The roll is often brushed with melted butter before serving, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor.
II. History of Parker House Roll
The Parker House Roll has a long and storied history that dates back to the 19th century. The roll was first created at the Parker House Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts, which was a popular destination for travelers and dignitaries during the mid-1800s. Legend has it that the roll was invented by the hotel’s baker, who accidentally left a batch of dough in the oven for too long, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior and soft interior.
The Parker House Roll quickly became a signature dish of the hotel and gained popularity throughout the United States. It was even featured in Fannie Farmer’s famous cookbook, “The Boston Cooking-School Cook Book,” where it was praised for its unique flavor and texture.
III. Ingredients used in Parker House Roll
The key ingredients used in Parker House Roll include flour, yeast, sugar, salt, butter, and milk. These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful dough that is perfect for shaping into rolls. Some recipes may also call for eggs or additional flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon to enhance the taste of the rolls.
IV. How to make Parker House Roll
To make Parker House Roll, start by proofing the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Once the yeast is activated, mix it with the flour, sugar, salt, and melted butter to form a soft dough. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, then let it rise until doubled in size.
Next, divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into an oval shape and brush with melted butter. Fold the dough in half and place on a baking sheet, leaving space between each roll to allow for rising.
Let the rolls rise again until puffy, then bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through. Brush the hot rolls with more melted butter before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
V. Serving suggestions for Parker House Roll
Parker House Roll is best served warm, straight from the oven. The rolls can be enjoyed on their own as a delicious snack or side dish, or used to make sandwiches or sliders. They also pair well with soups, stews, and salads for a comforting and satisfying meal.
For a sweet treat, try serving Parker House Roll with jam, honey, or cinnamon butter for a tasty twist on a classic roll. The rich and buttery flavor of the rolls pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
VI. Variations of Parker House Roll
While the classic Parker House Roll is delicious on its own, there are many variations that can be made to customize the flavor and texture of the rolls. Some popular variations include adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist, or incorporating ingredients like cheese, bacon, or garlic for a more indulgent flavor.
For a sweet variation, try adding raisins, cinnamon, or nuts to the dough for a tasty breakfast or dessert roll. You can also experiment with different shapes and sizes, such as making mini rolls for appetizers or shaping the dough into knots or twists for a unique presentation.
No matter how you choose to customize your Parker House Roll, one thing is certain – these buttery, soft rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and comforting bread roll, give the Parker House Roll a try and enjoy its rich flavor and fluffy texture.