Authentic Irish Soda Bread Recipe
When you think of traditional Irish cuisine, few items capture its essence as beautifully as Authentic Irish Soda Bread. This delightful bread not only boasts a rich history but also showcases the simplicity and heartiness of Irish cooking. Made primarily with cream flour, this recipe yields a loaf that is light, fluffy, and perfect for accompanying any meal. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted with a spread of butter, this soda bread is a culinary treasure.
Recipe Overview
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Authentic Irish Soda Bread |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Breads |
| Yield | 1 loaf |
| Description | A traditional Irish bread made with cream flour, producing a light and fluffy texture. Perfect for any occasion, this soda bread is a staple in Irish cuisine. |
Ingredients
To create this remarkable loaf of Authentic Irish Soda Bread, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream Flour | 3 cups |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Raisins | 1 cup |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content can help you appreciate your meal even more. Below is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this Irish soda bread:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 631.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 9.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1894.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 152.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g |
| Sugars | 122.7 g |
| Protein | 12.6 g |
Instructions
Creating your own loaf of Authentic Irish Soda Bread is a straightforward process that can easily be accomplished in just under an hour. Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft your perfect loaf:
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Sift the Dry Ingredients: Begin by sifting the cream flour, baking soda, and baking powder into a spacious mixing bowl. This step is essential, as it ensures the flour is light and free of any lumps, which contributes to the overall texture of the bread.
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Add Sugar and Raisins: Once your dry ingredients are well combined, add the sugar and raisins to the bowl. Gently stir the mixture to distribute the raisins evenly throughout the flour. The sweetness of the raisins will provide a lovely contrast to the rustic flavor of the bread.
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Combine with Buttermilk: Next, create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, begin to mix the ingredients until they form a cohesive dough. If the dough feels too dry, add a splash of buttermilk until you reach the desired consistency.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. With clean hands, knead the dough gently by folding it over itself repeatedly. Avoid over-kneading, as this can make the bread dense. You want to incorporate just enough flour to ensure the dough is workable.
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Shape the Loaf: Once kneaded, form the dough into a round shape. The key to this traditional bread is the cross shape you will cut on top. Using a sharp knife, make a deep cross incision, which allows the bread to expand and cook evenly without bursting.
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Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the shaped loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the bread to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your freshly baked Authentic Irish Soda Bread warm, or store it in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Enjoying Your Soda Bread
This bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it with butter, jam, or even alongside soups and stews. Its texture and flavor make it an excellent accompaniment to a hearty Irish meal or simply as a standalone treat.
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just want to add a taste of Ireland to your table, this Authentic Irish Soda Bread is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends, and perhaps even enjoy it with a cup of tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
With this recipe, you’re not just making a loaf of bread; you’re crafting a piece of history that brings a taste of Ireland into your home. Happy baking!
