Rustic Boiled Bread Balls with Sesame Seed Topping

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the **warm water**, **sugar**, and **active dry yeast**. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This ensures that your yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the **flour** and **salt**. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the dry ingredients along with the **olive oil**. Stir everything together until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it comes together into a soft, slightly tacky dough.

#### Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much. The dough should be soft but not overly sticky. Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about **1-1.5 hours**, or until it has doubled in size.

#### Step 3: Shape the Bread Balls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into **12-16 equal pieces**. Roll each piece into a ball and set them aside.

#### Step 4: Boil the Bread Balls
In a large pot, bring **a pot of water to a boil**. Add **a pinch of salt** to the water for extra flavor. Carefully place the dough balls into the boiling water, working in batches if necessary. Let the bread balls boil for about **2-3 minutes** each, flipping them halfway through. You’ll notice that the dough balls will puff up slightly as they cook. After boiling, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bread balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

#### Step 5: Add the Sesame Seed Topping
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)** while the bread balls are boiling. In a small bowl, pour **1/4 cup of boiling water** and add the **sesame seeds** to soak them for a few minutes. This helps the seeds adhere to the bread balls when baking.

After boiling the bread balls, lightly brush the tops of each one with a little olive oil. Then, dip each ball into the sesame seed mixture, pressing lightly to ensure that the seeds stick well to the dough.

#### Step 6: Bake the Bread Balls
Place the sesame-coated bread balls into the preheated oven and bake for **18-20 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the bread balls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These rustic bread balls are perfect for dipping into soups, enjoying with butter, or eating on their own as a snack. The sesame seeds provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chewy, soft interior of the bread.

### Tips and Variations:

– **Flavored Bread Balls:** For added flavor, you can mix herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder into the dough before kneading. This will infuse the bread with an aromatic twist.
– **Cheese Topping:** For a cheesy version, sprinkle the top of the bread balls with grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese before baking, or mix some cheese into the dough for a savory surprise inside.
– **Alternative Seeds:** If you prefer, you can use other seeds such as poppy seeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds instead of sesame seeds for a different flavor and texture.
– **Sweet Variation:** To make a sweet version, add a tablespoon of honey to the dough and sprinkle the tops of the bread balls with cinnamon sugar before baking.

### Why You’ll Love Rustic Boiled Bread Balls with Sesame Seed Topping:

These bread balls are everything you love about homemade bread—crusty on the outside, soft on the inside, with the added bonus of a crunchy sesame topping. The unique method of boiling before baking gives them a distinct, chewy texture that makes them stand out from typical bread rolls. The sesame seeds not only add flavor but also provide a beautiful golden color and crunch that elevates the rustic appeal of this dish.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can serve these bread balls with your favorite soups, stews, or salads, or just enjoy them with a bit of butter or olive oil as a simple snack. They’re perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a cozy weekend brunch. And since they’re relatively easy to make, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.

### Final Thoughts:

**Rustic Boiled Bread Balls with Sesame Seed Topping** are a delicious, comforting bread that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re pairing them with a hearty soup, enjoying them with your favorite dip, or savoring them on their own, these bread balls are simple to make, full of flavor, and sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, rustic goodness of homemade bread with a delightful sesame twist!