Julmust Limpor (Swedish Julmust Bread) Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (500 ml) Julmust (Swedish Christmas soda)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, lukewarm
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) molasses
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60g) butter, softened
- 2 tsp ground anise or fennel seeds (optional, for a traditional flavor)
- 4 1/2 to 5 cups (540-600g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (100g) rye flour
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
- Combine wet ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Julmust, molasses, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix well.
- Add the yeast mixture:
- Stir the activated yeast into the Julmust mixture.
- Incorporate the flour:
- Add the rye flour and ground anise (if using) to the bowl. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- First rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaves:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second rise:
- Cover the loaves with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffed.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the loaves to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips:
- Serve Julmust Limpor with butter or as an accompaniment to cheese and cold cuts.
- If Julmust is unavailable, you can substitute it with a mix of cola and root beer for a similar flavor profile.
Enjoy this festive and aromatic bread as a delightful part of your holiday spread!
