Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C
In the bowl of a standing mixer, put about three tablespoons of water, one tablespoon of sugar, yeast, stir, and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
Sift the flour into the yeast mixture, add two tablespoons of sugar and knead at a slow speed for one minute.
Gradually add oil while the mixture is working, then add the rest of the water.
Add the salt and knead for 8-10 minutes until a smooth dough is formed. If the dough is not coming together, add a tiny bit of water
Grease the dough with a little bit of oil, cover with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise until doubled (place it somewhere warm).
Separate the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll into small balls, put on a floured surface covered with a clean towel, and let rest for 10 minutes.
Roll each piece of dough into a long rope. Cover with a towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Wrap the rope around your fingers into a loose knot. Then, wrap one end of the rope up and over the loop.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the knotted rolls on it.
Let it rest until it has almost doubled in size (around 35-45 minutes)
Mix maple syrup and water and brush it all over the rolls. *optional* sprinkle some sesame seeds
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The rolls are done when they are golden brown.