Limpa Bread

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water
• ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup dark rye flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes.
2. Add both flours, salt, caraway seeds, pepper, ginger, molasses, and butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Add walnuts, if desired, and knead for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down dough and form into a round loaf. Place on a greased baking sheet and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Interesting Facts

• Limpa bread is also known as Swedish rye bread
• Limpa is traditionally served as part of a traditional Scandinavian smorgasbord
• Limpa is a popular accompaniment to herring, salmon, and other fish dishes
• Limpa is also great as an accompaniment to soups and stews