Traditional Irish Soda Bread
A simple yet delightful bread with a crispy crust and soft, tender crumb, perfect for any meal or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3.5 cups 3 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour Alternatively, you can use whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor.
- 0.75 teaspoon 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.75 teaspoon 3/4 teaspoon baking soda Ensure it's fresh for best results.
Wet Ingredients
- 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups buttermilk Substitute with a mix of milk and vinegar/lemon if necessary.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk.
- Gently stir the mixture with a wooden spoon, starting from the center and working outward until combined.
- Lightly flour a work surface and pour the dough onto it. Knead gently about four times until it comes together.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf using your hands.
- Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with flour. Slash a large X across the top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes at 450°F.
- Lower the temperature to 400°F (200°C), rotate the pan, and bake for another 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or paper bag at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, slice and freeze. It lasts up to three months in the freezer.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 5gFat: 1gSodium: 200mgFiber: 1g