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Traditional French Pistolets – Little Onion and Rye Bread Rolls

At a Glance

Prep: 1 hour 40 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Servings: 12 Pistolets

Dietary

Low Cholesterol

Allergens

Wheat
Gluten

These lovely little dinner or breakfast rolls are found everywhere in Belgium, and in most parts of France too. The last time I had them was a cosy Bed and Breakfast in Bruges, where they were served warm with fresh butter and boiled eggs for breakfast. They can vary in what type of flour is used, but they must always have the distinctive split, due to them being cut with the handle of a wooden spoon before baking. They are crusty and yet light inside, and make great sandwiches for picnics or a light lunch. This recipe is the result of numerous trial and error baking sessions, and the pistolets bread rolls are nutty and full of onion flavour. I start these off in the bread machine for ease when I am pushed for time, but they are just as easily made the more traditional way, mixing and proving by hand. NB: As one reviewer found out, baking can be a challenge, and in most cases an exact science. Do try to stick to the recipe as written - you won't be disappointed! Thanks!

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Equipment

Bread machine, baking sheets, oiled cling film, wooden spoon, wire rack

Ingredients

310 ml tepid water
20 g fresh yeast, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil or 2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
400 g strong white bread flour (high gluten)
100 g rye flour
2 -3 tablespoons dried onion
water, and onion salt or onion powder, for finish
flour, for dusting

Instructions

To start the dough in the bread machine, add the ingredients in the order posted - except the topping and extra flour for dusting. Put on "dough" setting to mix, prove and rise.
Pre-heat the oven to 220C/425F/Gas mark 7.
Once the dough has risen, turn out of the tin on to a floured board and knock back, then knead for a minute or two. Cut into 12 pieces and shape into ovals. Place on well greased and floured baking sheets and cover with oiled cling-film; leave them in a warm place to rise for 30 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Brush the rolls with water and then sprinkle with onion salt or normal salt, before dusting with flour. Using an oiled handle of a wooden spoon, split each roll almost in half lengthways, see photo. Allow to rest for 3 to 5 minutes before baking in pre-heated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. The pistolets should sound hollow when tapped and have a crusty finish. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack then serve warm with butter and fillings to taste. These freeze very well.

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