How to Make a Dark and Rich Eastern European Style Rye Bread

rye flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier with good fats.

active dry yeast

🥗Healthier: fresh yeast

💰Cheaper: instant yeast

Fresh yeast provides a more robust flavor.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: maple syrup

Honey offers natural sweetness with flavor.

Mix wholegrain rye flour, bread flour, and salt in a large bowl.

Dissolve active dry yeast and sugar in warm water until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

Combine the yeast mixture with the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-2 hours.

Punch down the dough and knead in caraway seeds and malt extract.

Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.

Cover and let rise again until doubled, about 30-60 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until the crust is dark brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens