1In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast over 1/4 cup of slightly warm water (100 degrees). Let stand until dissolved, 5 minutes.
2Stir in sugar, table salt, herbs, butter, whole egg and milk; add 3 1/4 cups flour and stir to moisten.
3Knead dough on a lightly floured board until elastic and not sticky, 15 minutes; add flour as needed to prevent sticking.
4Shape into balls - 12 for sandwiches and 1/2 that size for dinner.
5Place in a well-buttered pans.
6Let dough rise in a warm place until doubled, 45-60 minutes. Preheat oven to 350. Brush rolls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake until deep golden 25-30 minutes.
7Make ahead: Prepare through step 2; immediately wrap airtight and chill up to 1 day. Proceed with step 3 the next day.