Ham & Cheese Bun

I made these for breakfast today, but didn't have the chance to sample it.  It disappeared by the time I came back from the shops.

The rat culprit ? My brother :P.  But I am flattered that he ate 4 out of 7, as he is one hell of a food critic.  This must be darn good.  I will definitely make them again soon. 


You will need:

Dough
140 ml fresh milk
200 g bread flour
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp instant yeast
35 g butter, softened

Filling
4 ham slices
Adequate cheddar cheese, grated
Mayonnaise

Preparation:

Put all the ingredients (except for the butter) in the pan of the bread machine according to the manufacturer's instructions.  Select the dough function.  Add the butter after about 5 minutes. 

If you do not have a bread machine, do not despair, you can also knead the dough by hand.  To do so, simply put the flour and yeast in a bowl. Stir to combine.  Add the sugar and salt, and stir again.  Make a well in the centre of the flour. Pour milk into the well, and mix to make a soft, moist dough.

Place the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface and, with lightly floured hands, knead for 5 - 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.  Add the butter into the dough, and continue to knead for another 10 - 15 minutes until the dough is no longer sticking to the surface and your hands.

Place the dough into a large, lightly oiled bowl. Cover with cling film and leave to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until the dough has doubled in size.
When the dough program has finished (if using machine) or the dough has risen, take the dough out of the machine / bowl.  Place it onto a clean floured surface and punch down. Shape into round, and let rest for 10 minutes.

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a long rectangular, and arrange the ham slices on top.  From the long side of the rectangular, roll the dough up in swiss roll style.  Cut the rolled-up dough into 7 equal portions, and place them cut side up on a lined 20 cm round baking tin.  Cover and leave aside to proof for another 30 - 45 minutes. 

Preheat the oven to 180 deg Celsius about 15 minutes prior to baking.  Glaze buns with egg wash if you wish.  Scatter cheddar cheese all over, and top with mayonnaise.  Bake for 15 - 20 minutes or until the buns are golden brown.

P/S:  Regarding the mayonnaise, I will be a bit bossy here and insist that you use the Japanese brand, Kewpie.  It's the best mayonnaise I have tasted so far.