Where did it come from?
The origin of rye is somewhat contested, as there is not a clear line of human domestication of the cereal grain. Rye first came to be used by humans when they noticed it sprouting in their wheat and barley fields as a weed, and it thrived in conditions that other cereals struggled in. As with many other grains, it lost popularity when refined flours became more affordable, but has since made a resurgence due to its bold flavor and nutritional benefits. Rye's hardiness is one of its main characteristics and what made it so popular in regions where growing conditions were not ideal for wheat in places like Russia. This is why those areas have such a great tradition of rye breads to explore.