Traditional Soda Bread

There are some recipes that are so good they survive many centuries. Irish soda bread is one of these recipes and it couldn’t be easier to make. Plus, the bonus to making this hearty bread is that you don’t need any yeast at all, which is pretty great news if your cupboard is lacking this baking essential.

Because this bread contains no yeast, it also doesn’t require any rise time. There’s no waiting, no kneading, and no punching down the dough. The quick prep time is just one more thing to love about soda bread.

INGREDIENTS

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for flouring work surface
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk, (make your own by following the ratio of 1 cup whole milk to 1 tablespoon white vinegar)
  

  PREPARATION

  1. Preheat oven to 425˚.
  2. In large bowl combine dry ingredients, then slowly add buttermilk until just mixed.
  3. Flour work surface and turn out dough.
  4. Mold into a round shape and cut a large cross into top.
     1. Transfer to baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes or until golden crust forms on outside. When fully baked loaf should sound hollow when knocked on.