Rustic Seeded Artisan Bread is a hearty, flavorful, and visually appealing bread that’s perfect for any meal. With its crispy golden crust, soft interior, and a delightful blend of seeds such as sunflower, sesame, and pumpkin, this bread is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a wonderful choice for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying with butter and jam. This recipe offers a touch of homemade charm, creating a loaf that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour (you can also use whole wheat for a denser loaf)
1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
1/2 cup mixed seeds (sunflower, sesame, pumpkin, chia, etc.)
1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for topping)
1 tablespoon cornstarch or flour (for dusting)
1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice (optional for a tangier flavor)
Instructions:
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and yeast. Stir gently, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add extra flour as needed, but be careful not to overdo it. You want the dough to be soft and slightly tacky.
Add the seeds: Once the dough is smooth, gently fold in the seeds, reserving a few tablespoons for the top of the bread.
First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the dough: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly floured surface.
Second rise: Cover the dough again and let it rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). If you like a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven. Just before baking, sprinkle the top of the dough with the remaining seeds and oats (optional).
Bake: Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Description:
Rustic Seeded Artisan Bread is a bread full of flavor, with a crispy, golden-brown crust and a soft, airy crumb. The mix of seeds adds a lovely texture, crunch, and nutritional boost, while the slight tang from the yeast fermentation makes every bite incredibly satisfying. The bread is perfect for serving with soups, stews, cheese, or even as a hearty base for sandwiches. It’s homemade goodness in every slice!
Tips:
Hydration: If you want your bread to have a slightly more open crumb, you can increase the water content slightly (up to 1.25 cups), which will create a slightly wetter dough.
Flour options: Experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat or spelt, for a more rustic flavor. You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour if preferred.
Proofing time: If you have more time, you can let the dough rise slowly in the fridge overnight, which can enhance the flavor and texture.
Seed varieties: Mix and match different seeds to your taste. Flax seeds, poppy seeds, or even caraway seeds can add unique flavors and textures.
Crispier crust: For a more pronounced crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven during baking. It will create steam, making the bread crispier.
Variations:
Cheese and Herb Bread: Add some shredded cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) and a handful of fresh chopped herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the dough for a savory twist.
Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Bread: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and black olives to the dough for a Mediterranean-inspired loaf.
Sweet Seeded Bread: Add a tablespoon of cinnamon and a handful of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a sweeter version of the bread.
Corrections:
If your dough feels too sticky and difficult to shape, add small amounts of flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading. Ensure not to add too much, as it can affect the texture.
If your bread didn’t rise well, make sure your yeast is still active. If the yeast doesn’t foam after mixing with water and sugar, it may be expired.
Enjoy:
Once your Rustic Seeded Artisan Bread is done, allow it to cool for a little while before slicing.
Enjoy with butter, olive oil, or your favorite spread! Perfect as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or served alongside a hearty stew. It also makes a fantastic base for sandwiches or toast. Enjoy the fruits of your labor—there’s nothing better than fresh, homemade bread!