Irish Soda Bread
User Reviews
4.9
Irish Soda Bread
Description
Irish Soda Bread combines all-purpose flour with baking soda and salt to provide leavening without yeast. Buttermilk adds moisture and acidity, reacting with the baking soda to help the bread rise while imparting a subtle tang. Optional raisins contribute sweetness, and caraway seeds lend a mild licorice note to the flavor profile. The dough is mixed until just combined, then kneaded briefly to develop enough structure.
The dough is shaped into a round loaf, marked with a cross slit to help it bake evenly and create its traditional appearance. Baking at a high temperature yields a golden-brown crust, with a hollow sound when tapped indicating doneness. When cooled, slicing reveals a soft crumb with a tender texture.
This bread pairs well with soups, stews, or simply buttered as a snack. Adjust the salt level according to personal preference, as it tends to be on the saltier side when using the full 2 teaspoons.
Ingredients
- 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour divided
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup raisins optional
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of the flour, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Add 1 1/2 cups buttermilk, 1 cup raisins (if using), and 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (if using). Stir just until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 1 to 2 minutes, gradually adding an additional ½ to 1 cup of flour as needed until the dough is firm but not sticky.
- Shape the dough into a round ball and lightly dust the surface with flour. Place it on an ungreased baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, slash a 1-inch (2.5 cm) deep cross on top of the loaf.
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Transfer to a wire rack to cool before slicing.
Notes
- Reduce salt to 1 teaspoon for a less salty bread if preferred.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 1loaf
Amount Per Serving
Calories 1815 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1loaf | |
| Calories | 1815kcal | 91% |
| Carbohydrates | 351g | 117% |
| Protein | 56g | 112% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 39mg | 13% |
| Sodium | 8457mg | 352% |
| Potassium | 954mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 11g | 44% |
| Sugar | 18g | 36% |
| Vitamin A | 595IU | 12% |
| Calcium | 480mg | 48% |
| Iron | 20.3mg | 113% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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