Beer Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
4 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp whole fennel seeds (optional)
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 bottle (12 oz) beer, such as a northwest pilsner or ale
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350. Butter a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, fennel seeds (if using), and salt in a large bowl and stir to evenly mix. Add the beer and stir until just combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 50 minutes. Turn the bread out onto a wire rack to cool at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Makes 1 loaf.

Minced fresh herbs - such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano - can be used in place of the fennel seeds.