Discover the warm, comforting embrace of homemade Simple Irish Soda Bread, a delightful treat that's as easy to make as it is delicious! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 40 minutes from start to finish, you can indulge in this traditional Irish favorite that’s perfect for any meal. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether slathered with creamy butter or paired with your favorite soup, this soda bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined and free of lumps.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and gradually pour in the buttermilk. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough for about 30 seconds, just enough to bring it together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the bread tough.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, approximately 6-7 inches in diameter. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross (about 1/2 inch deep) on the top of the loaf, which helps the bread cook evenly and allows steam to escape.
- Transfer the shaped loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Dust the top lightly with flour for a traditional rustic look.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let the bread cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow the interior to set properly.
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or alongside soups and stews. Best enjoyed on the day it's baked.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise. Old baking soda can lead to dense bread.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Gently knead the dough for just about 30 seconds. Over-kneading can make your soda bread tough instead of tender.
- Shape it Right: When shaping your loaf, aim for a round shape about 6-7 inches in diameter. This helps it bake evenly.
- Cutting the Cross: Make sure to cut a deep cross on top of the loaf. This not only allows for even cooking but also adds to the rustic charm of the bread.
- Check for Doneness: Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow when fully baked. If it doesn’t, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your soda bread warm, ideally on the same day it’s baked. It pairs beautifully with butter, jam, or as a side to hearty soups and stews.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 166kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 3mg
