Discover the rich flavors of Iceland with this traditional dark rye bread, known as Rúgbrauð. Made with simple ingredients like rye flour, sugar, baking powder, and buttermilk, this dense and moist bread is a staple in Icelandic cuisine. Enjoy it warm with butter, smoked fish, or alongside a hearty soup for a truly authentic taste of Iceland.

Here's a recipe for traditional Icelandic Rúgbrauð:

Ingredients:

  - 500g rye flour

  - 250g whole wheat flour

  - 250g all-purpose flour

  - 2 tsp baking powder

  - 1 tsp salt

  - 100g dark brown sugar

  - 750ml buttermilk

  - 100ml dark syrup or molasses

  - 50g melted butter

  - Raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 2-liter bread pan.

2- In a large bowl, mix together the rye flour, whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar.

3- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, dark syrup or molasses, and melted butter.

4- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined. Add raisins if desired.

5- Pour the batter into the greased bread pan and smooth the top.

6- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

7- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Icelandic Rúgbrauð!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Icelandic Rúgbrauð recipe per 100g:

500g Rye Flour:

 - Calories: About 1,650 kcal

 - Fat: 5g

 - Carbohydrates: 340g

 - Protein: 50g 

Benefits: High in fiber, which supports digestive health. Provides essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Has a lower glycemic index compared to wheat flour.

250g Whole Wheat Flour:

 - Calories: About 900 kcal

 - Fat: 4g

 - Carbohydrates: 190g

 - Protein: 30g 

Benefits: Rich in fiber, vitamins B1, B3, and B5, and minerals like iron and magnesium. Supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.

250g All-Purpose Flour:

 - Calories: About 910 kcal

 - Fat: 2g

 - Carbohydrates: 190g

 - Protein: 25g 

Benefits: Provides structure and texture in baked goods. Lower in fiber compared to whole grain flours.

2 tsp Baking Powder:

 - Calories: About 10 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Leavening agent that helps baked goods rise. Provides no significant nutritional value but is essential for texture.

1 tsp Salt:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits:Enhances flavor and is necessary for electrolyte balance. Should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

100g Dark Brown Sugar:

 - Calories: About 380 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 100g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds sweetness and moisture. Provides some minerals like calcium and potassium.

750ml Buttermilk

 - Calories: About 350 kcal

 - Fat: 6g

 - Carbohydrates: 30g

 - Protein: 20g 

Benefits: Contains probiotics that support digestion. Provides calcium, vitamin B12, and protein.

100ml Dark Syrup or Molasses:

 - Calories: About 280 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 75g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium. Adds a distinct flavor and sweetness to recipes.

50g Melted Butter:

 - Calories:About 360 kcal

 - Fat:40g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds richness and flavor to baked goods. Provides fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Raisins (Optional):

 - Calories: About 300 kcal per 100g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 80g

 - Protein: 1g 

Benefits: Adds natural sweetness and nutrients such as potassium, iron, and antioxidants. Supports energy levels and digestive health.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.