Irish Soda Bread Recipe

There are few things that are as comforting and nostalgic as a freshly made loaf of Irish soda bread. With its rustic charm and wholesome flavor, this humble bread has stood the test of time, becoming a beloved staple in kitchens all over Ireland and the world. 

The history of Irish soda bread traces back to 19th-century Ireland, a time of hardship and scarcity. Traditional yeast was a luxury many families could not afford, leading resourceful bakers to experiment with alternative leavening agents. Thus, soda bread was born, utilizing bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) as a leavening agent instead of yeast. This simple yet ingenious innovation allowed families to enjoy freshly baked bread without the need for costly ingredients or lengthy fermentation processes. 

Today, the art of making Irish soda bread remains a cherished tradition, with each baker adding their own unique twist to the classic recipe. The beauty of soda bread lies in its versatility; it can be adapted to suit individual tastes and preferences, whether you prefer a traditional plain loaf or one infused with seeds, fruits, or nuts. 

Now, let's embark on our own culinary journey and create a delicious loaf of Irish soda bread. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade bread in no time. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 250g Plain Flour 
• 250g Wholemeal Flour 
• 1 tsp Bicarbonate of Soda
• 1 tsp Salt 
• 420ml Buttermilk  

Method: 

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C and grease your baking tray with butter.
2. In a bowl, combine both plain and wholemeal flour, mixing thoroughly.
3. Add bicarbonate soda and salt to the flour mixture.
4. Slowly pour buttermilk into the flour mixture, continuously mixing to form a sticky dough.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured counter or tray, gently rolling and folding until it comes together. Avoid kneading the mixture.
6. Shape the dough into a round ball and flatten the top slightly.
7. Place the dough onto the prepared baking tray.
8. Using a knife, score the top of the dough with a horizontal and vertical line, creating a cross pattern.
9. Dust the bread with wholemeal flour.
10. Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. To check for doneness, tap the top of the bread; it should sound hollow.
11. Allow the bread to cool before serving. Enjoy with a generous spread of your favorite butter. (Recommended: Kerrygold or Amul).