Sunflower Rye Loaf

The Polish farming countryside at the peak of summer is a technicolor wonder. Hot fields of sunflowers and bright red poppies await harvest. Whole giant sunflower heads appear in vegetable stands, the fresh seeds ready for snacking. Meanwhile, the shelled seeds are used heavily in baking, adding a rich, nutty signature to many buns, cookies, and loaves. Here, rye and a touch of sweet malt complement a hearty sourdough bread that’s as easily paired with vinegary herrings and wódka as it is m