Discover the heartwarming aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen with our Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread recipe! This traditional Irish delight is not only incredibly easy to make but also results in a crusty, golden loaf that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply craving a slice of comfort, this soda bread will surely become a staple in your home. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to Ireland with just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Ireland
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the oven rack in the center of the oven to ensure even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps remove any lumps and ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Gradually pour in the buttermilk, using 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. Place the loaf on a lightly greased baking sheet or cast-iron skillet.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (about 1/2 inch deep) on the top of the loaf. This traditional mark helps the bread cook evenly and allows steam to escape.
- Dust the top of the loaf lightly with a little extra flour for a rustic appearance.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The bread is done when it has a deep golden-brown crust 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.
- Serve warm with fresh butter, or use as a companion to soups, stews, or enjoy on its own. Best consumed 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 a dense loaf.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Knead the dough gently and just enough to bring it together; over-kneading can make the bread tough.
- Shape Matters: Aim for a round loaf of about 6-7 inches in diameter for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Cross Cut: Don’t skip the deep cross on top of the loaf! It’s not just for looks; it helps the bread cook evenly and allows steam to escape.
- Check for Doneness: The bread is ready when it has a deep golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the bread warm with a pat of fresh butter or alongside your favorite soups and stews.
- Enjoy Fresh: This bread is best consumed on the day it's baked, so gather your loved ones and enjoy it straight from the oven!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 168kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 3mg
