Can this bread be stored, and for how long?

Yes, the bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

You can use a yogurt and water mix in a 1:1 ratio as a buttermilk substitute.

Can I make this bread in a regular oven if geothermal cooking isn't available?

Yes, you can bake it in a low-heat oven at 100°C (212°F) for about 3 hours as described.

Can I add any other flavors to the bread?

You can add nuts or dried fruits like raisins for extra texture and flavor.

How does the geothermal method affect the bread's flavor?

Geothermal cooking gives the bread a unique, earthy flavor that’s hard to replicate in a traditional oven.

Geothermal-Cooked Icelandic Bread with Sea Salt Butter

Name: Geothermal-Cooked Icelandic Bread with Sea Salt Butter
Prep time: 3 h
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 10 slices
Cuisine: Bread
Ingredients: 500g Rye flour; 200g Whole wheat flour; 2 tsp Baking powder; 1 tsp Sea salt; 200g Brown sugar; 1 tsp Caraway seeds; 700ml Buttermilk; 100ml Golden syrup; 250g Unsalted butter; 1 tsp Sea salt; 1 tsp Honey

Slow-cooked Rugbrauð for a Taste of Iceland

Delight in the earthy and subtly sweet flavors of traditional Icelandic rye bread, cooked slowly to perfection using geothermal heat, paired with homemade sea salt butter.

3 h 30 min
10 slices
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Rugbrauð

500g Rye flour

200g Whole wheat flour

2 tsp Baking powder

1 tsp Sea salt

200g Brown sugar

1 tsp Caraway seeds

optional

700ml Buttermilk

100ml Golden syrup

For the Sea Salt Butter

250g Unsalted butter

softened

1 tsp Sea salt

1 tsp Honey

optional

Preparation

Preparing the Rugbrauð Dough

Combine dry ingredients

Mix rye flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.

Add sugar and seeds

Add brown sugar and caraway seeds, mixing well.

Incorporate liquids

Gradually stir in buttermilk and golden syrup until a smooth, sticky dough forms.

Ensure the dough is well mixed to prevent lumps.

Making the Sea Salt Butter

Whip butter

Place softened butter in a mixer and whip until smooth.

Whip the butter until it’s light and airy for a fluffy texture.

Add flavorings

Add sea salt and honey, continuing to whip until well combined.

Chill butter

Transfer the butter to a small serving dish and chill until ready to serve.

Cooking Process

Geothermal Baking Process

If possible, place the dough in a covered pot and bury it near a hot spring. Let it cook for 8 to 12 hours.

Traditional Oven Method

Preheat your oven to 100°C (212°F) and bake the covered dough for about 3 hours.

Serving

Cool the bread slightly before slicing.

Plating & Serving