A Timeless Irish Soda Bread Recipe Passed Down Through Generations

My Irish grandma taught me this recipe, and I swear I make it all year long!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly dust a baking sheet with flour or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Buttermilk: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Using a fork, stir until just combined. The dough should be soft but not too wet or sticky.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together into a round loaf. Avoid over-kneading to prevent the bread from becoming tough.
5. Shape the Loaf: Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep X into the top, about an inch deep, to help the bread cook through properly.
6. Bake: Place the dough in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. It’s best served warm.

Variations & Tips:

• Sweeten It Up: Add a couple of tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients for a touch of sweetness.
• Personalize Your Bread: Incorporate raisins, dried cranberries, or caraway seeds for an added flavor profile.
• Buttermilk Substitute: No buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into 1 3/4 cups of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container. It’s delightful when toasted the next day.
• Homemade Charm: Remember, this bread doesn’t have to be perfect—it’s all about the homemade charm and the love baked into every bite. Enjoy, my friends!

This cherished recipe not only fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread but also brings a touch of Irish heritage to your table. Happy baking!