German Dark Rye Bread

Indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of European baking with this delicious recipe for German Dark Rye Bread. This dense and flavorful bread is a staple in German cuisine, perfect for accompanying soups, sandwiches, or enjoying on its own with a spread of butter. The deep, earthy notes of rye flour combined with a hint of molasses create a unique depth of flavor that will have your kitchen smelling like a traditional German bakery in no time. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!

Title: German Dark Rye Bread

Ingredients:
– 2 cups dark rye flour
– 1 1/2 cups bread flour
– 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp caraway seeds
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 tbsp molasses
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Cornmeal (for dusting)

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark rye flour, bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and caraway seeds. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the warm water, molasses, and vegetable oil. Stir until the molasses is fully dissolved.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet mixture into it. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together until a rough dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky, but be mindful not to add too much.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet on the center rack. Sprinkle cornmeal on a baking sheet or a pizza peel.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf and transfer it to the prepared baking surface. Make a couple of slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
8. Let the loaf rise for another 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
9. Carefully slide the risen dough onto the hot baking stone or sheet in the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is deeply golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy the aroma and taste of authentic German Dark Rye Bread!

German Dark Rye Bread is a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire, bringing a taste of Germany right into your home. The nutty and slightly sweet flavors of this bread will surely impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to savor each bite of this delightful creation! Enjoy!