Rye Bread Recipe – How to make the best Rye bread.

Rye bread has a hearty, slightly sour flavor with a dense texture. Made with rye flour, this rye bread recipe is a perfect choice for sandwiches or to pair with soups and stews.

Rye bread’s unique flavor comes from the rye flour, which gives it a denser texture compared to white or whole wheat bread. The sour notes are often enhanced by the fermentation process, which adds complexity to the bread’s taste. Whether you’re making a classic Reuben sandwich or enjoying it with butter and cheese, rye bread offers a robust flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf

Ingredients:

• 400g (3 1/4 cups) rye flour
• 100g (3/4 cup) bread flour
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 300ml (1 1/4 cups) warm water
• 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 1 tbsp caraway seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine rye flour, bread flour, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, adding a little more flour if necessary, until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 45 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Rye Bread Tips:

1. Use a Starter: A rye sourdough starter improves flavor and texture.
2. High Hydration: Rye flour absorbs more water; keep the dough moist.
3. Gentle Mixing: Rye dough is stickier; avoid overworking it.
4. Longer Rise: Allow longer fermentation for better flavor.
5. Add Caraway Seeds: Traditional rye breads often include caraway seeds for flavor.
6. Baking Temperature: Bake at 180-200°C (350-400°F) for a dense yet soft crumb.

Rye Bread Variations:

• Seeded Rye: Add sunflower or flax seeds for extra crunch.
• Multigrain Rye: Mix in oats, wheat, or barley flour.
• Honey Rye: Add honey for a slightly sweet, softer loaf.
• Dark Rye: Use dark rye flour for a richer, deeper color and flavor.
• Olive Rye: Incorporate chopped olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Wants to try a different bread ? Why not check our easy Banana Bread Recipe or even easier Garlic Bread .