Traditional Irish Soda Bread
6 servings
60 minutes
Traditional Irish soda bread is a symbol of hospitality and home comfort, rooted in centuries. It emerged in Ireland in the 19th century when baking soda became available, allowing for yeast-free bread. This bread has a dense yet tender texture with a slight nutty flavor from whole wheat flour. Buttermilk adds softness and a hint of tanginess, while the crispy crust makes it particularly appetizing. It's perfect for breakfast with butter and jam or as an accompaniment to hearty Irish soups. It's important to cut a cross on top—traditionally believed to 'release evil spirits' from the dough. The simplicity and accessibility of ingredients have made this bread a favorite in many homes, with its aroma filling the kitchen with warmth and coziness.
1
Preheat the oven to 220 degrees. Melt butter on a warm baking sheet, greasing the surface.
- Butter: 1 teaspoon
2
In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt).
- Whole grain flour: 450 g
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Soda: 1 teaspoon
3
Make a depression in the resulting mixture and pour in half of the buttermilk (can be made by adding 1 tbsp of vinegar to a cup of milk). Mix the mixture by hand, then pour in the remaining buttermilk so that the dough becomes soft but not too wet.
- Buttermilk: 350 ml
4
Knead the dough on a floured surface, form a round flatbread about 20 cm in diameter, and make a small cross cut.
- Whole grain flour: 450 g
5
Place the future bread dough on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.