Ruisleipä, or Finnish Rye Bread, is a dense and flavorful bread that is a staple in Finnish cuisine. Known for its hearty texture and deep, tangy flavor, this bread is perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with butter. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 500g rye flour
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 500ml lukewarm water
- 25g fresh yeast (or 7g active dry yeast)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon molasses or dark syrup
- Optional: a handful of caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in the lukewarm water. If using active dry yeast, let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the molasses or dark syrup to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Mix the Flours:
- In a separate bowl, combine the rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. If you like, add a handful of caraway seeds for extra flavor.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring continuously to form a sticky dough.
- Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. The dough will be sticky, so you may need to flour your hands and the surface occasionally.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf:
- After the first rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Bake the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is dark brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- For a crispier crust, you can place a small dish of water in the oven to create steam during baking.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Ruisleipä with butter, cheese, or your favorite toppings for a true taste of Finland!