Hungarian Split Farmhouse Loaf

Directions

• In a bowl mix the Yeast with water & allow it to activate .
  
• Meanwhile , in an another bowl mix together Flour , Salt , Sugar & crushed Fennel .
  
• Carefully pour active Yeast & Butter on top of the Flour & carefully mix everything well .
  
• Knead the dough for about 8-10min or until the dough is smooth & elastic .
  
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl & cover with a towel & let it rise in a warm place for about 40-60min or until doubled in size .
  
• Punch down the dough & shape the dough into an oval  shape & allow it to rest again on a prepared pan for about 30-40min or until doubled in size .
  
• Meanwhile pre-heat the Oven to 425 degree .
  
• Combine Egg White & Salt together & brush on top the loaf & sprinkle Fennel Seeds .
  
• Using a sharp knife slash along its length .
  
• Bake the Loaf in a 425 degree Oven for about 20min & then reduce the temperature to 350 degree & bake for another 10min or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom .
  
• Allow the bread to cool down .
• Serve it with Honey / Nutella / Jam or with Butter .