Delicious and Nutritious Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe

Welcome to my Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe! As a chef, I believe in the importance of using quality ingredients to create delicious and nutritious meals. This recipe is no exception, as it is made with whole wheat flour to provide you with the health benefits of whole grains.

If you’re not familiar with runzas, they are a type of bread dough stuffed with a savory filling, often made with ground beef, cabbage, and onions. Runzas are a staple of Nebraska cuisine, but they’re enjoyed all over the world. This recipe is my take on this classic dish, using whole wheat flour for added health benefits.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, or you’re a fan of Nebraska homemade runzas, this recipe will not disappoint. So, let’s get started on making some delicious and healthy bierocks or runzas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious recipe to satisfy your carb cravings, then you’ll love this whole wheat runza dough recipe. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to make homemade runzas that are both quick and healthy.

Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also uses whole wheat flour, which is much healthier than regular flour. Whole wheat flour is high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full for longer, and it’s also packed with essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

This recipe also uses active dry yeast, which gives the dough a light and airy texture that is perfect for making delicious bierocks and runzas. The dough is also made with eggs, milk, and butter, which gives it a rich and buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory filling.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can use it to make all kinds of different runzas and bierocks, including ground beef, ground turkey, and even cabbage rolls. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

So if you’re looking for an easy and healthy recipe that is perfect for any occasion, then you’ll love this whole wheat runza dough recipe. It’s quick, easy, and delicious, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredient List

Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe. Don’t worry, the list of ingredients is fairly simple and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm milk (2% or whole)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups whole wheat flour (or 2 cups whole wheat flour and 1 cup all-purpose flour)

That’s it! This recipe only requires a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Now, let’s get started on making this delicious Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe.

The Recipe How-To

Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to make the whole wheat runza dough. Follow these steps to make the perfect dough for your homemade runzas.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of warm milk and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1/4 cup of sugar on top of the mixture. Let the yeast activate for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, mix 3 cups of whole wheat flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the activated yeast mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Sprinkle 1/2 cup of flour on a clean surface and transfer the dough to it. Knead the dough for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Grease a bowl with 1 tablespoon of butter and place the dough in it. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Divide the Dough

Punch the dough to release the air and divide it into 12 equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and flatten it with a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Step 7: Add the Filling

Add your desired filling to each flattened dough ball. Traditionally, ground beef and cabbage are used for the filling. But you can also use ground turkey or any other filling that you prefer.

Step 8: Shape the Runza

Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket and pinch the edges to seal it. Place the runzas on a greased baking sheet and let them rise for another 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 9: Bake the Runzas

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush the runzas with 1 beaten egg and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of flour. Bake them for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Now that you have made your own whole wheat runza dough, you can enjoy delicious homemade runzas anytime you want!

Substitutions and Variations

There are several substitutions and variations that you can try with this whole wheat runza dough recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some of our recommendations:

– Ground Beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option, or even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian or vegan version.

– Whole Wheat Flour: If you don’t have whole wheat flour on hand or prefer a milder taste, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. Just note that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

– Active Dry Yeast: If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can substitute it with instant yeast or fresh yeast. However, the amount and activation time may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions and adjust accordingly.

– Milk: You can use any type of milk for this recipe, including cow’s milk, almond milk, or soy milk. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can also use water or a non-dairy milk substitute.

– Butter: You can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter for a vegan option.

– Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking or use a sugar substitute such as honey or maple syrup.

– Cabbage Buns: If you want to switch up the filling, you can try making these buns with cabbage rolls or a runza casserole filling. You can also experiment with different types of meat, cheese or vegetable fillings.

Feel free to get creative with your substitutions and variations to make this recipe your own. Just be aware that some changes may affect the texture and flavor of the final product, so it may take some trial and error to find the perfect combination.

Serving and Pairing

Once you’ve made your delicious homemade runza dough, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to serve and pair these delicious treats. One of the great things about runzas is that they are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of dishes and beverages.

Firstly, you can serve your homemade runzas as a meal on their own. These filling and hearty rolls are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual lunch. Pair them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dough and filling.

If you’re looking for a more traditional pairing, you can’t go wrong with a cold beer. In Nebraska, where runzas are a beloved local dish, it’s common to enjoy a runza alongside an ice-cold beer. The bitterness of the beer pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the runza, making for a truly satisfying meal.

For a healthier option, try pairing your runzas with a crisp and refreshing green smoothie. The sweetness of the smoothie complements the rich flavors of the dough and filling, while the vitamins and minerals in the greens provide a nutritious boost.

Finally, if you’re serving your runzas as part of a larger meal, they pair well with a wide range of dishes. Try serving them alongside mashed potatoes and gravy, roasted root vegetables, or a hearty soup or stew.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair your homemade runzas, one thing is for sure – they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not whip up a batch today and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Nebraska dish?

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about this Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe is that you can make the dough ahead of time and store it for later use. Once you’ve mixed and kneaded the dough, let it rise and punch it down. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dough will continue to rise slowly in the fridge, giving it more flavor and texture.

If you want to freeze the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

When it comes to storing leftover baked runzas, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.

If you want to make homemade runzas ahead of time, you can assemble them and freeze them before baking. Just place the assembled runzas on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake them as directed in the recipe.

Whether you’re making the dough ahead of time, storing leftover runzas, or freezing assembled runzas, this recipe is perfect for meal prep and planning. With a little bit of foresight, you can have homemade runzas ready to go whenever you want.

Tips for Perfect Results

To ensure the perfect whole wheat runza dough, here are some tips and tricks that I swear by:

Firstly, use good quality whole wheat flour. It can make all the difference in the taste and texture of the dough. I recommend using a whole wheat flour that is finely ground and has a high protein content.

Secondly, activate the yeast properly. If you are using active dry yeast, ensure that it is fresh and not expired. Mix it with warm water and sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This will ensure that your dough rises perfectly.

Thirdly, knead the dough for the recommended time. Whole wheat dough requires a longer kneading time than white bread dough. Kneading helps to develop the gluten in the dough which gives it a nice chewy texture.

Fourthly, let the dough rise in a warm place. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and place it in a warm area like near a window or in the oven with the light on. This will help the dough to rise properly.

Fifthly, don’t skimp on the butter. Adding butter to the dough makes it tender and adds a delicious flavor.

Sixthly, don’t overstuff the runzas. It’s tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can cause the dough to tear and the filling to spill out.

Seventhly, brush the dough with an egg wash before baking. This will give it a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish.

Lastly, let the runzas cool down for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and the dough to cool down slightly.

By following these tips, you’ll end up with the perfect whole wheat runza dough every time.

Bottom Line

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In conclusion, this Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe is a must-try for any home cook who wants to make delicious and healthy homemade runzas. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can make the best runza dough and create a variety of runza recipes, from classic Nebraska runzas to bierocks, cabbage buns, and more. Plus, with the option to use either whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, you can customize the recipe to your taste and dietary needs.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its soft and flavorful texture, thanks to the addition of eggs, butter, and milk. Moreover, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use, which makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

So, why not give this Whole Wheat Runza Dough Recipe a try and see for yourself how easy and delicious it is? You’ll love the taste, the health benefits, and the satisfaction of making homemade runzas from scratch. Don’t forget to share your creations with us and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!

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