Irish Orange Oat Soda Bread
Irish Soda Bread Recipe with Orange Rind and Oats
The Irish Soda Bread is a cherished traditional recipe, often prepared during St. Patrick’s Day or the Feast of St. Patrick. My time in Boston is marked with fond memories of grand parades, green-themed festivities, and delicious food served during this vibrant celebration. This bread, inspired by those moments, is quick to make, deeply flavorful, and carries a nostalgic charm. I’ve modified an original recipe, which I had discovered in The Boston Globe, by incorporating wholesome oats and wheat flour, enhancing its texture and nutritional value.
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a hearty, homemade bread with a delightful citrus twist, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | European |
| Course | Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Servings | 8 slices |
Ingredients
The ingredients for this Irish Soda Bread strike a perfect balance between rustic flavors and delicate sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Buttermilk, whisked | 1 3/4 cups |
| Whole Egg, whisked | 1 |
| Orange Zest (Rind) | 1 teaspoon |
| Prunes, chopped | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Vitamin C | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delightful loaf of Irish Soda Bread with Orange Rind and Oats:
-
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan, depending on your preference.
-
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the whole wheat flour, instant oats, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
- Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly on low speed if using a stand mixer.
-
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the buttermilk, whisked egg, orange zest, and chopped prunes into the dry mixture.
- If using a stand mixer, beat on low speed until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Alternatively, mix by hand until a cohesive dough forms.
-
Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface.
- Knead gently for a few minutes, ensuring the dough becomes smooth and pliable.
-
Shape the Loaf
- Shape the dough into a round loaf.
- Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan.
- Using a knife, make a shallow cross or depression on the top of the loaf. This step helps the bread bake evenly and adds a traditional touch.
-
Bake the Bread
- Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes.
- The bread is ready when a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Slice and serve as desired, pairing it with butter, jam, or a simple drizzle of honey for a delightful treat.
Chef’s Notes
- Substitutions: You can swap prunes for raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates, depending on your preference.
- Storage: Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for longer preservation.
- Serving Suggestions: This bread is perfect on its own but also pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or a warm cup of tea.
Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe as a nod to Irish traditions, and let the bright notes of orange rind and hearty oats transport you to a festive Boston celebration!
