Ingredients
For the Bread Dough:
- 500g (4 cups) bread flour
- 1 packet (7g) instant dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 100g (¾ cup) rice flour (white, not sticky/glutinous)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp yeast
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 90ml (6 tbsp) warm water
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- Mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl.
- Add warm water and oil. Mix and knead until smooth (8–10 mins by hand or 5 mins in a mixer).
- Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled.
2. Shape the Loaf or Rolls
- Punch down the dough and shape it into 1 large loaf or divide it into rolls.
- Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
3. Make the Topping
- Mix all topping ingredients in a small bowl to make a thick, spreadable paste.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes to activate.
4. Apply the Topping
- Spread a thick layer of the topping over the shaped dough with a spoon or spatula.
- Let rise for another 20–30 minutes.
5. Bake
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Bake:
- 25–30 mins for a large loaf
- 15–20 mins for rolls
- Bread is done when golden and the crust is cracked like a tiger’s pattern.
