Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare a heavy-duty stand mixer fitted with a kneader attachment.
- Place about 3-1/2 cups flour in the bowl.
- Melt the shortening in the microwave; add to the bowl with the flour.
- In a measuring cup, measure out 1 cup milk, then add in 4 tablespoons sugar and the salt; heat until quite warm in the microwave, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt.
- Pour the milk into the bowl with the melted shortening and flour; cover the bowl with a towel to keep ingredients warm.
- Proof the yeast in a 3/4 cup warm water with 1 teaspoon sugar for about 8-10 minutes or until foamy.
- After proofing, add to the bowl and start kneading for about 3-4 minutes, then add in more flour as needed to create a soft semi-sticky dough, knead about 8 more minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough on a very lightly floured counter or board; let rest for 5-10 minutes, covered with a clean tea towel.
- Grease a large bowl, then place the dough into bowl to rise in a warm place for about 50-60 minutes (because of the amount of yeast, the dough should take a shorter rising time in a warm place).
- Punch down dough.
- Cut into pieces (I usually cut into 6 pieces), and shape large balls.
- Let dough balls rest for about 4 minutes (or just enough time to make shaping easier).
- Shape the dough into desired length for buns.
- Sprinkle a large cookie/baking sheet with cornmeal, or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Place the long pieces of dough on a baking sheet (shape once again if you need to).
- Cover and let rise for about 25 minutes, or until doubled.
- Set oven to 375 degrees.
- Bake for about 22-25 minutes, or until dark golden brown.
- If desired after the second rising and just before baking, beat one egg white with 1 teaspoon cold water, then brush on buns and sprinkle with sesame seeds.