OLD-WORLD DARK BREAD

Old-World Dark Bread image

I came up with this recipe in an attempt to re-create a wonderful Russian bread I enjoyed as a child. It makes a dense, crusty loaf that dark-bread lovers are sure to savor.

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 1h20m

Yield 2 loaves.

Number Of Ingredients 16

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Ingredients

4 to 4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
4 cups rye flour
2 cups All-Bran
2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon caraway seeds
1 teaspoon fennel seed, crushed
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
3 cups water, divided
1/2 cup molasses
1/4 cup butter, cubed
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 ounce unsweetened chocolate
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine the first 10 ingredients. In a saucepan, heat 2-1/2 cups water, molasses, butter, vinegar and chocolate to 120°-130°. Add to dry ingredients; beat just until moistened. , Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/2 hours., Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough in half; shape each portion into a ball. Place on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. , Bake at 375° for 50-55 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. , In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and remaining water until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Brush over bread.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 147 calories, Fat 2g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 251mg sodium, Carbohydrate 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 4g protein.