Irish Soda Bread

Irish Soda Bread is the perfect thing to make for St Patrick’s Day tomorrow, and you probably have all the ingredients in your cupboards already. Its an easy dense bread that you can make from start to finish in under an hour.

The tradition dates back to the mid 1800s when baking soda was first brought to Ireland. Since then it has become a daily staple of the Irish diet, however their version is a darker more savoury version than what we tend to make here in North America. But I love raisins, so mine is just a tad more sweet than the traditional one. Perfect with a little bit of butter and a nice cup of tea…or for tomorrow, a pint of Guinness!

What you’ll need:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 egg white, slightly beaten
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (or see below to make substitute)

In a large mixing bowl stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in raisins. Make a well in the center of the mixture.

If you do not have buttermilk add 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar to a measuring cup.

Add milk until you have one cup of liquid. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes and then it is ready to use.

In a small mixing bowl or a large measuring cup combine buttermilk or substitute with the egg white.

Add to the dry mixture and stir until just moistened.

On a lightly floured surface, knead dough 10-12 times or until smooth.

Shape into a round loaf and place on a parchment lined baking sheet.

With a sharp knife cut a large X on the top of the loaf. Bake at 375 F for 50 minutes or until golden.

Serve warm. Makes 12 servings.

Nutritional Information
Printable Version

Adapted from an old Better Homes and Gardens recipe