This simple soda bread recipe is a classic Irish staple, known for its quick preparation and deliciously crusty exterior. Made with just a few basic ingredients, soda bread is perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or enjoying on its own with a slather of butter. With no need for yeast or lengthy proofing times, you can have fresh, homemade bread on the table in no time.
Simple soda bread
This simple soda bread recipe is a classic Irish staple, known for its quick preparation and deliciously crusty exterior. Made with just a few basic ingredients, soda bread is perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or enjoying on its own with a slather of butter. With no need for yeast or lengthy proofing times, you can have fresh, homemade bread on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk or 1 3/4 cups milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in most of the buttermilk.
- Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms. Add more buttermilk if needed to bring the dough together, but be careful not to overwork it.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it for just a minute until it comes together into a smooth ball.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross into the top of the loaf.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.