Broetchen (German Bread Rolls)

Directions

1. 1
   Mix flour, salt, and sage together in a large bowl. Form a well in the center.
2. 2
   Mix 2 teaspoons warm water, honey, and yeast together in a small bowl. Pour mixture into the well without mixing. Cover bowl with a cloth; set in a warm area for 15 minutes.
3. 3
   Pour the remaining water and 1 teaspoon olive oil into the flour-yeast mixture; stir with a wooden spoon until dough sticks together. Cover with a cloth and keep warm. Let rise until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
4. 4
   Punch down dough and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth, using the remaining flour as needed. Return to the bowl; cover and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes.
5. 5
   Grease a baking sheet with the remaining olive oil; lightly dust with flour.
6. 6
   Punch down the dough; divide into 12 equal parts. Shape into ovals and cut a cross on top of each roll with a butter knife. Place rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes. Brush the rolls with egg white.
7. 7
   Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
8. 8
   Bake rolls in the preheated oven until golden, about 15 minutes.