In a small bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Stir gently to dissolve the honey, then sprinkle the instant yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes or until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is key for ensuring the yeast activates properly and helps your dough rise.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the dry ingredients before adding the wet ones.

Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add a bit more warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. If you're using caraway seeds, add them during the kneading process. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic but still slightly sticky. This step helps develop the gluten, giving the bread its structure.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for getting that light, airy texture in your finished loaf.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan.

Cover the dough again with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise ensures your bread has that perfect airy texture when baked.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has finished rising, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps set the bread’s texture and makes slicing much easier.