Rome's signature crusty, hollow bread roll is perfect for panini filled with porchetta or mortadella. A mediterranean bread staple that supports high protein family lunches.
Bloom the active dry yeast in 1/4 cup warm water for 10 minutes until foamy, ensuring water temperature does not exceed 110°F.
Combine bread flour and salt in a large bowl; create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, remaining water, and olive oil. Mix gently until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic; allow dough to rest covered for 1 hour or until doubled in size at room temperature.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape into balls; rest for 15 minutes, then press and form each ball into Rosetta Romana rolls by indenting the tops with a rosetta stamp or round dowel.
Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise, covered, for 45–60 minutes. Preheat oven to 480°F with a baking stone or steel, then bake with steam for 18–20 minutes until deep golden and crusty, ensuring a hollow sound when tapped underneath.