Traditional Irish Soda Bread

Irish Soda Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the butter: Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overwork it.
5. Shape the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Don’t knead the dough too much — just gently form it into a round shape. Place the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Score the top: Use a sharp knife to make a deep “X” shape on the top of the dough. This helps the bread cook evenly and gives it a traditional look.
7. Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also brush the top with a little buttermilk before baking for a nice golden crust.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with butter and enjoy!

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This Irish Soda Bread is perfect for pairing with your corned beef and cabbage, or as a standalone treat for any St. Patrick’s Day celebration! It’s a simple, hearty bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Enjoy!