In a medium mixing bowl, mix together yeast, sugar and lukewarm water. Stir until the yeast is dissolved. Let stand for 5 minutes until the yeast activates and a foam begins to form on top of the liquid.
Add soft butter, salt, and flour. Mix until ingredients are just incorporated.
Knead dough for 4-5 minutes until a soft dough ball is achieved. Place in a bowl that has been greased with oil. Cover and place in a warm place.
Let rest until double in size, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Remove the dough from the bowl. Punch to release gas. Divide into 8 equal parts. Let rest for 10 minutes.
Shape each dough piece into a ball and then pull to flatten into an oval. Use a straw to press down into the dough about one-third from the edge, keeping it from cutting all the way through the dough. Then press the straw again one-third from the other edge. This will give you two lines across the top of the bread. Repeat with all 8.
Place dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Let dough rest until doubled in size, approximately 45 minutes.
Brush a little water on the top of each roll, using a pastry brush. Bake at 400F degrees for about 5 minutes.