Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 2 Loaves
Savor the rich, earthy flavors of Ruisleipä, Finland’s beloved rye bread, known for its deep, slightly tangy taste and dense, chewy texture. Made primarily from whole-grain rye flour, this hearty bread is packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a staple in Finnish cuisine for centuries. Baked in round loaves with a signature hole in the center, Ruisleipä is perfect for open-faced sandwiches, alongside soups, or simply enjoyed with butter and cheese.
Ingredients For Ruisleipä�
🔥 For the Dough:
☑ 4 cups whole rye flour 🌾
☑ 1 cup bread flour (optional, for a lighter texture) 🍞
☑ 2 teaspoons🥄 salt 🧂
☑ 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast 🌱
☑ 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C) 💧
☑ ½ cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt for tanginess) 🥛
🔥 Optional Add-ins:
☑ 1 tablespoon🥄 molasses or honey 🍯
☑ 1 teaspoon🥄 caraway seeds for extra flavor 🌿
👩🍳 Cooking Steps For Ruisleipä�
🔥 Step 1: Activate the Yeast
1️⃣ In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water.
2️⃣ Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
🍞 Step 2: Prepare the Dough
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, bread flour, and salt.
2️⃣ Add the yeast mixture and buttermilk, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3️⃣ Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. (Rye dough is denser than wheat dough, so don’t expect it to be elastic.)
🔥 Step 3: First Rise
1️⃣ Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp towel.
2️⃣ Let it rise in a warm place for 1.5–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
✨ Step 4: Shape the Loaf
1️⃣ Punch down the dough and divide it in half.
2️⃣ Shape each portion into a round loaf and poke a hole in the center (traditional Finnish style).
3️⃣ Place the loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4️⃣ Cover and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes.
🔥 Step 5: Bake the Bread
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ Optionally, brush the loaves with water for a crispier crust.
3️⃣ Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is dark brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
🌿 Step 6: Cool & Serve
1️⃣ Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
2️⃣ Serve with butter, cheese, smoked fish, or pickled vegetables for a true Finnish experience.
Nutty, tangy, and deeply satisfying—Ruisleipä is a true taste of Finland, baked into every wholesome slice.🍞
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Paiche a la Brasa – A Taste of Amazonian Heritage You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.
