Irish soda bread became popular in the 1830s when baking soda was introduced to the U.K. It is made of basic, inexpensive ingredients and could be cooked over an open hearth making it more accessible to those without ovens and in more rural areas where yeast was harder to come by. The lactic acid in the buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to create carbon dioxide which causes the bread to rise. Irish soda bread can be enjoyed plain alongside a meal, or with an addition like raisins, it can make for a hearty breakfast or snack.
Yields 1 loaf
Serves 8-12 pieces
Irish Soda Bread
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Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 eggs room temperature, divided use
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- Optional: 3/4 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease well, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk first five ingredients together. Add in the cold butter and mix in using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers. Break up pieces of butter until mixture resembles coarse sand.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and buttermilk. Add to flour mixture and stir just until combined. Fold in raisins if using.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 6-8 times. Shape into a 6.5 inch round loaf. Place on prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, make a shallow cross on top of the loaf. Whisk remaining egg and brush lightly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake until golden brown, 30-35 minutes. Remove from pan to wire rack. Serve warm with the spread of your choice.
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https://kitchenhouseaustin.com/irish-soda-bread/
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