Imagine a warm, hearty loaf that captures the soul of Irish countryside cooking - crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, with a rich, nutty flavor that transports you straight to a cozy Irish kitchen. This Traditional Irish Brown Bread isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that connects you with generations of Irish home bakers who have perfected this simple yet extraordinary bread. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to transform your kitchen into a haven of irresistible aromas and authentic Irish charm.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Slowly pour the buttermilk into the well, using a wooden spoon or your hands to gradually mix the wet and dry ingredients together. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough for just a few seconds, being careful not to overwork it. The key is to handle the dough minimally to keep the bread tender.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, about 6-7 inches in diameter. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross (+) into the top of the loaf, reaching about halfway through the dough. This traditional mark helps the bread cook evenly and allows steam to escape.
- Transfer the shaped loaf onto the prepared baking sheet. Dust the top lightly with a little extra whole wheat flour if desired.
- 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 30 minutes before slicing to allow the interior to set properly.
- Serve warm with fresh butter, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This bread is best enjoyed on the day it's baked.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality whole wheat flour for the most authentic flavor and texture.
- Don't overwork the dough - gentle mixing is key to keeping the bread tender.
- The deep cross cut on top isn't just traditional; it helps the bread cook evenly and allows steam to escape.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure the perfect interior texture.
- For extra authenticity, serve with fresh Irish butter or alongside a hearty soup.
- If your buttermilk is cold, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before using to help the dough mix more smoothly.
- Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 38kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 3mg
