New York Rye Bread

Ingredients

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 2 ½ cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons caraway seeds
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups rye flour
• 1 egg white, beaten

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Add the sugar and vegetable oil, and stir to combine.
2. Add the caraway seeds, cocoa powder, salt, all-purpose flour, and rye flour. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape into two loaves. Place the loaves on a lightly greased baking sheet and let rise for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaves with the beaten egg white and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts

• Rye bread is a type of bread made with rye flour, which is a flour ground from rye grain.
• Rye bread is a staple in many Central and Northern European countries, but it is popular in the United States as well.
• Rye bread is high in fiber and B vitamins and has a lower glycemic index than wheat bread.
• Rye bread has a distinctive flavor and texture, and is often served with butter, cheese, or deli meats.