Suomalaisruisleipa (Finnish Rye Bread)
Description
This authentic Finnish Rye Bread is a staple of Nordic cuisine, known for its dense texture, moist crumb, and subtle sweetness. Made with a blend of dark rye flour and white flour, it offers a hearty mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with butter, cheese, or cured meats. The recipe uses a liquid base of beer, buttermilk, or potato water to add depth and a slight tanginess. It is an excellent choice for a cozy weekend baking project, offering a rustic, homemade quality that elevates simple meals. The bread keeps well, making it ideal for meal prep or sharing with friends and family.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat 1 1/2 cups of your chosen liquid (beer, buttermilk, milk, or potato water) to lukewarm.
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Stir in the butter and salt until dissolved. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
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In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in 1/2 cup of warm water and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
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Stir the yeast mixture into the cooled liquid mixture.
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Add the rye flour and beat until the mixture is smooth.
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Gradually add the white flour, one cup at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition until a stiff dough forms.
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Dust a work surface with white flour. Turn the dough out onto the surface and form into a rough ball.
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Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes.
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Knead the dough gently for about 5 minutes, adding only enough flour to prevent sticking, until smooth. Do not over-knead rye dough.
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Form the dough into a smooth ball and place it in a large, generously buttered bowl. Turn to coat all sides with butter.
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Cover and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, approximately 2 hours.
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Punch the dough down, gently knead for one minute, and divide into two equal parts.
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Form each half into a round loaf. Place in two lightly buttered 9-inch round cake pans or on a buttered baking sheet.
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Optionally, press a hole through the center of each loaf for traditional shape. Cover and let rise until almost doubled, about 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375&# 194;°F (190ðC).
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Brush loaves with water and gently puncture the surface with a fork in a decorative pattern.
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Bake for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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While still hot, brush with melted butter to glaze. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 73.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 9.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 6.5g3%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 0.9g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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