Latvian Rye Bread

Recipe

Latvian Rye Bread

Hearty Harvest: Latvian Rye Bread Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of Latvian cuisine with this authentic recipe for Latvian Rye Bread. This traditional dish holds a special place in Latvian culture and is known for its hearty and wholesome qualities.

Jan Dec

20 minutes

40-45 minutes

2 hours 5 minutes

8 servings

Medium

Vegetarian, Vegan (if molasses is substituted with maple syrup), Dairy-free, Nut-free, Soy-free

Wheat

Gluten-free, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Salt: 1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, wheat flour, and salt.
  2. 2.
    Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  3. 3.
    Add the yeast mixture and molasses to the flour mixture. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
  4. 4.
    Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  5. 5.
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  6. 6.
    Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  7. 7.
    Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into a round loaf.
  8. 8.
    Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  9. 9.
    Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the crust is dark and crispy.
  10. 10.
    Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Rye flour — Use a good quality rye flour for the best results. If you can find stone-ground rye flour, it will add a rustic touch to the bread.
  • Molasses — Molasses adds depth of flavor and a rich color to the bread. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute it with maple syrup.

Tips & Tricks

  • To achieve a darker crust, brush the loaf with water before baking.
  • For added flavor, you can sprinkle caraway seeds or sunflower seeds on top of the loaf before baking.
  • Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure a clean cut.

Serving advice

Serve Latvian Rye Bread sliced and spread with butter or topped with Latvian cheese. It is also delicious when used as a base for open-faced sandwiches.

Presentation advice

Present the Latvian Rye Bread on a wooden cutting board or a traditional Latvian bread basket. You can also sprinkle some rye flour on top of the loaf for an authentic touch.