Sun-Dried Tomato Rye Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine rye flour, bread flour, yeast, salt, oregano, and caraway seeds if using. Whisk together until evenly distributed.

   Tip: Mixing dry ingredients separately ensures the yeast and salt don't directly contact each other, which can inhibit fermentation.

2. 2

   Pour warm water into the dry mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Add the olive oil and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

   Tip: Rye dough will be slightly stickier than wheat bread dough—this is normal and gives the bread its tender crumb.

3. 3

   Fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Add the honey and mix gently.

   Tip: Folding rather than vigorous kneading helps prevent the delicate tomato pieces from breaking apart.

4. 4

   Knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with the dough hook for 6 minutes on medium speed.

   Tip: Rye contains less gluten than wheat, so the dough won't become as elastic—this is expected.

5. 5

   Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking tray. Cover loosely with a damp cloth and allow to rise for 90 minutes at room temperature until puffy.

   Tip: Rye dough rises more slowly than wheat dough, so be patient with the fermentation time.

6. 6

   Preheat your oven to 220°C. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife in a crosshatch or simple slash pattern.

   Tip: Scoring allows steam to escape and helps the bread expand evenly during baking.

7. 7

   Bake for 40-45 minutes until the crust is deep golden-brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

   Tip: If the crust begins to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil halfway through baking.

8. 8

   Transfer to a wire rack and cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb structure to set properly.

   Tip: Slicing too early results in a gummy interior, so resist the urge despite the wonderful aroma.