Black Russian Rye Bread

Ingredients

• 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
• pinch sugar
• 2 1/2 cups warm water (105 to 115 degrees)
• 1/2 cup dark molasses (not blackstrap)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) butter
• 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate
• 1/2 cup (2.25 ounces) whole-wheat flour
• 3 cups (12 ounces) rye flour
• 3 cups (12.75 ounces) unbleached all-purpose flour, plus 1 tablespoon
• 1 cup wheat bran
• 2 tablespoons caraway seeds, plus 1 optional teaspoon
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 tablespoon minced shallots
• 1/4 cup cornmeal