Irish Soda Bread is a traditional Irish bread that’s quick and easy to make. It doesn’t require yeast, and instead relies on baking soda as the leavening agent. The result is a dense, slightly crumbly loaf with a soft, tender crumb and a deliciously crispy crust. It’s often served with butter, jam, or alongside hearty meals like soups and stews.
Here’s a classic recipe for Irish Soda Bread:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (you can substitute regular milk if you don’t have buttermilk, but buttermilk is best for the authentic flavor)
Optional Add-ins (for a variation):
- 1/4 cup sugar (for a slightly sweeter version)
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (a common addition, especially for a more traditional “spotted” version)
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet or a cast iron skillet inside to heat up while you’re preparing the dough.
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. If you’re adding sugar, raisins, or caraway seeds, mix them in at this stage.
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Add the Buttermilk:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and slowly pour in the buttermilk. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the dough until it just comes together. The dough should be soft but not too sticky.
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Shape the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently knead it a few times—just until it forms a rough ball. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make the bread tough.
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Prepare for Baking:
- Take the heated baking sheet or skillet out of the oven. Place the dough onto it, and with a sharp knife, score an “X” into the top of the dough. This allows the bread to expand evenly while baking.
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Bake:
- Bake the soda bread for about 30–40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The bread should be firm to the touch.
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Cool:
- Let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. It’s best served warm with butter or your favorite jam.
Tips:
- Buttermilk substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to sour before using it in the recipe.
- Storage: Soda bread is best eaten fresh, but you can store it wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, you can freeze it.
Enjoy your warm, rustic Irish Soda Bread!