Oatmeal Bread with Fig, Anise, and Walnuts

1. 1

   Dissolve the yeast in 3 cups lukewarm water in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook.

2. 2

   Once it is dissolved, turn the mixer on low and slowly add the honey, rolled oats, steel-cut oats, wheat germ, salt, anise seeds, walnuts, and dried figs.

3. 3

   Stir in the whole-wheat flour and 3 1/2 cups of the all-purpose flour and knead.

4. 4

   Put the slightly sticky kneaded dough in a large greased bowl, and cover with plastic wrap.

5. 5

   Let it rise for 1 hour, or until it is doubled in volume.

6. 6

   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

7. 7

   Grease a baking sheet, or line it with parchment paper.

8. 8

   Punch down the dough, and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

9. 9

   Divide it in half, and form two round loaves.

10. 10

    Place them on the baking sheet and using a sharp knife or a razor blade, make a few long, shallow gashes across each of the loaves.

11. 11

    Let rise another 1/2 hour.

12. 12

    Bake for 40 minutes, or until the loaves sound hollow when tapped.

13. 13

    Allow to cool before slicing.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.