Baking bread at home is a rewarding experience, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked organic bread filling your kitchen. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make Fennel feed and dill rye bread – a delicious herbed loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or to enjoy on its own. We’ll keep it simple, brief, and straight to the point.
The Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds and Dill Seeds You Probably Didn’t Know About
Before we get to the fun part, let’s talk about the health benefits of the star ingredients – fennel and dill seeds.
Fennel seeds are known to relieve indigestion and bloating. They’re also packed with antioxidants that help fight free radicals. In addition, fennel seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
Dill seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. They’re also a great source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones.
Now that you know the good stuff these seeds bring to the table, let’s get into making this tasty bread
Fennel Seed and Dill Rye Bread: Ingredients
For this hearty and aromatic bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dough:
- 2 cups of rye flour
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 teaspoons of fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon of dill seeds
- 1 ½ cups of warm water
Toppings:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Additional fennel and dill seeds for sprinkling
Fennel Seed and Dill Rye Bread: Instructions
Here are the steps to baking a delicious organic herbed bread.
Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets foamy.
Step 2: Mix the flours
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, all-purpose flour, salt, fennel seeds, and dill seeds.
Step 3: Combine the ingredients
Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix everything until it forms a shaggy dough.
Step 4: Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Rising time
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
Step 6: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven.
Step 7: Shape the bread
Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on parchment paper for easy transfer.
Step 8: Egg Wash and Seeds
Brush the top of the loaf with beaten egg and sprinkle some additional fennel and dill seeds for that extra flavor and crunch.
Step 9: Bake
Slide the parchment paper with the bread onto the preheated baking stone or sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 10: Cooling
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing into it. It’s tempting to dive in immediately, but a little patience pays off.
What to Eat With Your Fennel Seed and Dill Rye Bread
Your fennel seed and dill rye bread are now ready, and you’re probably wondering what you can enjoy it with. Here are some tasty pairing suggestions:
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese: The herbal taste of the rye bread goes well with the rich, smoky taste of salmon and the creamy texture of cream cheese.
- Avocado and tomato: Spread some ripe avocado on a slice of this bread and top it with fresh tomato slices for a healthy snack.
- Egg salad: Make a classic egg salad sandwich with this bread for a delightful lunch.
- Homemade soup: Serve your favorite soup with a side of this bread. The combination of flavors and textures is unbeatable.
A Word on Baking Fennel Seed and Dill Rye Bread
Nothing beats an organic spiced bread baked at home. Fennel and dill make a perfect combo in this classic rye bread with health perks that make it a must-try. To ensure your bread turns out perfect, always allow your yeast mixture to get foamy. If it doesn’t, your yeast might not be active.
We also encourage you to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for the bread’s texture. A baking stone or an inverted baking sheet is a trick you can use to get that perfect crust. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious and healthy loaf of bread right in your kitchen.