Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, inviting you to indulge in a delightful culinary experience. Our Homemade Kale Soda Bread is not just any bread; it's a unique twist on a classic Irish favorite that’s packed with nutritious greens! In just one hour, you can create a delicious loaf that’s perfect for any meal, whether enjoyed with a hearty soup or slathered with vegan butter. Ready to impress your family and friends with this wholesome treat? Dive into our recipe and discover the secrets to achieving the perfect crust and tender crumb!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to give your soda bread a nice rise and crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well blended. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour.
- Add the chopped kale to the dry mixture. Make sure the kale is finely chopped to ensure it integrates well into the dough. You can use fresh kale or, if using leftover cooked kale, make sure it is well-drained and chopped.
- In a separate bowl, measure out the plant-based milk. If you prefer, you can slightly warm the milk to help activate the baking soda, but this is optional.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the plant-based milk. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
- Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth ball. Avoid excessive kneading to keep the bread light and airy.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, about
- 5 inches thick. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross on the top of the loaf. This allows the bread to expand while baking and gives it a traditional look.
- Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C).
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps to set the texture of the bread.
- Serve your homemade kale soda bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with vegan butter, soups, or salads.
Tips
- Kale Preparation: For the best flavor and texture, finely chop the kale before adding it to the flour mixture. If using leftover cooked kale, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
- Mixing Technique: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so just blend until a soft dough forms.
- Temperature Matters: Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) is crucial for achieving that perfect rise and crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Scoring the Loaf: Make sure to score a deep cross on the top of your loaf before baking. This traditional technique not only adds a beautiful touch but also helps the bread expand properly as it bakes.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes after baking. This step is essential for setting the texture and making slicing easier.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your kale soda bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or simply with a spread of vegan butter for a delightful snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
