Soda Bread
Soda bread is a classic Irish staple that is both simple and satisfying. With its delightful crumb and slightly sweet taste, it pairs perfectly with both savory and sweet accompaniments. This homemade version is straightforward, using basic pantry ingredients to create a rustic loaf that's sure to please.
Ingredients:
🥣 4 cups all-purpose flour
🍬 1/3 cup white sugar
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
🍚 1 teaspoon baking powder
🥄 1 teaspoon baking soda
🧈 1/2 cup softened butter (1 stick)
🥚 1 egg
🥛 1/2 cup buttermilk
For Brushing:
🫒 1/4 cup melted butter
🥛 1/4 cup buttermilk
🍬 1 tablespoon crystal sugar for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, white sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix thoroughly.
Incorporate Butter:
- Add the softened butter into the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, break down the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Make a well in the center of the mixture. Crack in the egg and pour in the buttermilk. Mix by hand until a dough forms, being careful not to over-knead. The dough should be cohesive yet slightly sticky.
Shape the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently, folding the dough over itself a few times until no lumps remain. Form into a round ball.
Score and Brush:
- Place the dough ball onto the prepared sheet pan. With a sharp knife, score an 'X' on top of the dough. This helps the bread cook evenly.
Prepare Brushing Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and buttermilk.
Bake and Brush:
- Brush the top of the bread with some of the butter and buttermilk mixture. Place in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, brushing with more of the mixture every 10 minutes.
Final Touch:
- During the last brushing at the 30-minute mark, sprinkle the top of the bread with crystal sugar.
Check for Doneness:
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack. Serve warm, or store in the fridge overnight and enjoy it with breakfast the next day.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Equipment: Mixing bowls, pastry cutter, sheet pan, parchment paper, sharp knife
Servings: 8 slices
Cooking Tips:
- Using high-quality butter, especially Irish butter, enriches the flavor of your soda bread.
- Be careful not to over-mix or knead the dough excessively to avoid a dense texture.
- Soda bread is delicious with a spread of butter or preserves.
#sodarocking #irishcooking #homemadebread #bakinglove #comfortfood
YouTube channel: No Way José Cuisine
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