Vegan oat and seed bread rolls

During the week, I usually kickstart my mornings with a sweet breakfast like my Bircher Muesli. It’s a delicious and energizing way to fuel up for the day. However, this weekend I really craved some fresh bread rolls. They bring back fond memories from my childhood when freshly baked bread rolls were a staple at our breakfast table. The smell of those slightly warm bread rolls was a comforting and joyful start to our weekends. These vegan oat and seed bread rolls are my way of recreating those cherished moments, filled with nutritious ingredients.

I think there is something incredibly enjoyable about the process of baking your own bread. Mixing the ingredients, shaping the dough and waiting as the kitchen fills with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread rolls is a truly rewarding experience. It not only brings a sense of accomplishment but also allows you to connect with the food you’re making and enjoy the fruits of your labour in the most delicious way. Trust me, baking these vegan oat and seed bread rolls quickly becomes a relaxing weekend ritual, transforming simple ingredients into something special and nourishing for the whole family to enjoy.

Health Benefits

These oat and seed rolls are packed with nutritious ingredients, providing all the energy you need to power through your day. Whole grain oats are the basis of this recipe and an excellent source of dietary fibre, which is essential for maintaining digestive health. Fibre helps prevent constipation and keeps you feeling full longer. Oats are also known to help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, they provide a steady release of energy, making them a perfect choice for a sustained morning boost.

Pumpkin seeds are incredibly nutrient-dense. They are rich in magnesium, which is vital for muscle function, bone health and energy production. Zinc is also found in pumpkin seeds and supports your immune function. The healthy fats in these seeds, including omega-3, contribute to heart health and help reduce inflammation in the body.

Sunflower seeds are packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative damage. This vitamin is also beneficial for skin health, helping to keep it smooth and youthful. Sunflower seeds are also a good source of selenium, which supports thyroid function and boosts the immune system.

The flaxseeds are a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. They help lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. Flaxseeds are also high in lignans, plant compounds that have antioxidant properties and may help prevent certain types of cancer. The soluble fibre in flaxseeds aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. However, it is recommended to consume flaxseeds in moderation, typically up to one to two tablespoons per day for most people.

Chia seeds are also known for their high fibre content, again promoting digestive health and helping maintain a feeling of fullness. They are also a great source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Chia seeds also contain calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, which are essential for bone health. Their also contain lots of omega-3 fatty acids.

Oat and Seed Rolls

Ingredients (6-8):

• 200 g oat flakes (whole grain)

• 70 g pumpkin seeds

• 70 g sunflower seeds

• 30 g flaxseeds

• 30 g chia seeds

• 350 ml water

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1tsp salt

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the chia seeds with 90 ml of water. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds and the salt. Mix well.

3. Add the chia seed gel, apple cider vinegar and the remaining water (260 ml) to the dry ingredients. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture will be quite thick.

4. Let the dough sit for about 20-30 minutes to allow the chia seeds and flaxseeds to absorb the water and bind the dough together.

5. Preheat your oven to 175°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

6. With slightly wet hands, shape the dough into 6-8 rolls and place them on the baking sheet.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes until the rolls are golden brown. The Baking time may vary depending on your oven.

8. Let the bread rolls cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy!

Why homemade is sometimes better

Store-bought bread rolls (by that, I don't mean the bread rolls from a good bakery, but the mass-produced ones from the supermarket) often contain refined ingredients and preservatives that can diminish their nutritional value. Making your own bread rolls at home ensures that you know exactly what’s going into them—high-quality, wholesome ingredients that are good for your body. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about baking your own bread.

So, if you’re looking to switch up your breakfast routine and indulge in a bit of nostalgia, give these vegan oat and seed bread rolls a try. They’re not only a delicious but also a super healthy choice! Enjoy the warmth, comfort and wonderful memories they bring. Happy baking!