Toasted Onion Buns

It seems that as the weather gets warmer, and stays consistently warmer, more and more of our neighbors are firing up their BBQ's, filling the air with that wonderful smell of smoke.   As dinner time approaches you can almost pick out what everyone is eating for dinner (thanks to condo life), and more often than not it is the smell of Hamburgers.  The Hubs loves a good toasted onion bun for his burgers, pulled pork, or even chicken sandwich.  This recipe seems to fit that bill.  With a subtle onion flavor, this moist bun can hold up to even the sloppiest of sandwiches.

Toasted Onion Buns 
Makes 8 buns
1 cup warm water
2 tbsp softened butter
1 large egg
3 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
2 tbsp vital wheat gluten
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp instant yeast
1 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp dried toasted onions, plus more to top buns if desired

Combine all the ingredients in a stand mixer and mix, using the dough hood for 8 minutes.  You will have a soft, smooth dough.  Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap.  Let it raise until doubled in size, about one hour.

Lightly punch down the dough, divide it into 8 pieces (about 4 ounces each), and shape each piece into a flattened ball.  Place the buns on a greased baking sheet  and let raise 30-40 minutes until they are quite puffy.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.  bake the buns for 12 to 15 minutes, until they are golden brown.  Remove them from the oven and cool on a wire rack.  Split buns, fill with your favorite burger, or sandwich and enjoy.

For Hot Dog Buns: (These would be incredible with a Chicago style dog)
Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces, roughly 3 ounces each.  roll into a log shape the length of a hotdog and flatten slightly, let raise 30-40 minutes.  Follow baking instructions.