Old-World Rye Bread Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, bread flour, salt, and yeast.
• STEP 2.Add warm water and molasses to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
• STEP 3.Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• STEP 4.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
• STEP 5.Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a greased baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
• STEP 6.Cover the loaf with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
• STEP 7.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• STEP 8.Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• STEP 9.Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing.
• STEP 10.Store the bread in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Cooking Tips

• For a darker crust, brush the loaf with water before baking.
• You can add caraway seeds or other spices to the dough for extra flavor.
• To achieve a chewier texture, you can add a small amount of vital wheat gluten to the dough.

Storage and Serving

• Once cooled, slice the bread and serve it with butter or your favorite spreads.
• This bread is perfect for making sandwiches or toast.
• To extend its shelf life, you can freeze the bread in slices and thaw as needed.