Lovage Seed Bread
Lovage Seed Bread offers a hearty, flavorful loaf with aromatic lovage seeds and onion, perfect for rustic meals or hearty sandwiches, suited for bread lovers seeking unique herbal notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the fresh yeast, sugar, and warm water in a bowl.
- Leave in a warm place until frothy.
- Mix the salt, whole wheat flour, strong white flour, and vegetable oil in another bowl.
- Add the yeast mixture and grated onion to the flour mixture, kneading to make a soft dough.
- Knead lightly on a floured surface for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and leave to rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
- Shape the dough into rolls or loaves and place on a baking tray or greased loaf pans.
- Brush the dough with a little water and sprinkle with lovage seeds.
- Leave for 20 minutes.
- Bake at 450°F for 10 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for a further 5 to 20 minutes.
- Remove from pans and cool on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the water is warm but not hot, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast. If you don't have lovage seeds, you can substitute with caraway seeds for a different flavor. Kneading the dough well develops gluten, which is crucial for a good rise. If you prefer a softer crust, consider using a steam pan in the oven during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This lovage seed bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups or stews, making it a great accompaniment to dishes like Swedish Vegetable Salad. Try it toasted with butter or as a base for sandwiches filled with your favorite ingredients. For a delightful treat, serve it alongside Marg King'S Strawberry Preserves for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lovage seed bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or toast them directly for a crisp texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lovage Seed Bread contains roughly 342 calories, with 12g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Use about 1/4 of the amount, which is roughly 1/8 oz. or 2 1/4 teaspoons. Dissolve it in warm water with the sugar and let it activate before mixing it with the dry ingredients.
What can I substitute for whole wheat flour?
If you don't have whole wheat flour, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. However, the bread will be less dense and have a milder flavor. Consider adding a tablespoon of wheat germ to enhance the nutritional profile and mimic the texture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F for a fully baked loaf.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).