Poppy Seed Paste Bun
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 large egg
1/2 cup Hasho Poppy Seed Paste
1 tablespoon Hasho Poppy Seeds (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, butter, and egg.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it slightly.
Place a teaspoon of Hasho Poppy Seed Paste in the center of each bun and fold the edges around it, sealing the paste inside.
Place the buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Sprinkle the tops with Hasho Poppy Seeds.
Let the buns rise for an additional 20-30 minutes.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.