Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a sweeter crust)
- 1 3/4 cups (420ml) buttermilk
- 1 large egg (optional, for richness)
- Optional: 1 cup (150g) raisins or currants
Instructions
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- If using raisins or currants, soak them in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up, then drain.
Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using).
Combine wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg (if using) until well combined.
Make the dough:
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the well.
- Use a fork or rubber spatula to gently mix the wet and dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overmix – the dough should be a bit sticky.
- If using raisins or currants, gently knead them into the dough.
Form the loaf:
- Lightly flour your hands and a work surface. Turn the dough out onto the surface and form it into a round loaf. Be gentle; you don’t want to knead too much.
Score and bake:
- Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep ‘X’ across the top of the loaf
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is a deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and enjoy:
- Let the soda bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or alongside a hearty soup or stew!
Tips:
- Buttermilk substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into a measuring cup, then fill to the 1 3/4 cup line with regular milk. Let it rest for 5 minutes before using.
- Whole Wheat Variation: You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- Flavor Additions: Get creative! Try adding caraway seeds, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of cheese.
