Hard rolls

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the sugar and warm water in the bowl of an electric mixer with a dough hook attachment.
2. 2
   Sprinkle the yeast on the surface and allow it to begin foaming, about five minutes.
3. 3
   Sift together the bread flour and whole wheat flour.
4. 4
   Add half the flour mixture to the yeast mixture while the mixer is running on low speed.
5. 5
   Once incorporated, slowly add the remaining flour and the salt.
6. 6
   Continue mixing until the dough is smooth and has completely pulled away from the sides, adding more bread flour as necessary.
7. 7
   Take the dough out of the mixer and finish kneading briefly by hand on a floured board.
8. 8
   Place the ball of dough in a clean large bowl and cover.
9. 9
   Let proof at room temperature until it begins to rise, two to three hours, then refrigerate overnight.
10. 10
    The following day, take the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into eight equal pieces.
11. 11
    On a lightly floured board, form each piece of dough into a smooth ball.
12. 12
    Place the rolls on a baking sheet at least four inches apart and cover loosely with a towel.
13. 13
    Let the rolls rise at room temperature for five hours, until fully proofed.
14. 14
    Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
15. 15
    Dust the tops of the rolls with a bit of the bread flour, then bake them on the top rack until golden brown.
16. 16
    Let cool completely on the baking sheet.
17. 17
    Just before serving, reheat the rolls again in a 400-degree oven to fully crisp them and to warm them through.
18. 18
    This cooling and reheating step is crucial for proper texture and flavor development.