Authentic Russian Black Bread

Ingredients

• Rye flour (2 cups)
• Whole wheat flour (1 cup)
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Cocoa powder (2 tablespoons)
• Instant coffee (1 tablespoon)
• Caraway seeds (2 teaspoons)
• Molasses (1/4 cup)
• Honey (2 tablespoons)
• Warm water (2 cups)
• Active dry yeast (1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons))
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Vegetable oil (for greasing)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee, caraway seeds, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the honey and molasses in warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.
3. Gradually add the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Grease a bowl with vegetable oil, place the dough in the bowl, and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
7. Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet, cover it with the kitchen towel, and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
8. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve with your favorite soup or stew, or enjoy it on its own.