What is special about Irish soda bread?
Irish Soda Bread has a unique texture which results from the reaction between sour milk and baking soda. This reaction forms small bubbles of carbon dioxide in the dough, giving the bread its distinctive light and tender crumb.
The idea of using baking soda as a leavening agent did not originate in Ireland. Precursors to modern baking soda include potash, pearl ash, or potassium carbonate — basically lye solids mixed with hardwood ashes.
During the Great Famine in Ireland in the 1840s, yeast became very difficult to procure. The Irish discovered that adding baking soda to soft wheat flour produced a reliable loaf of bread that could be baked quickly and easily.
Today, Irish soda bread is not only popular in Ireland but also enjoyed worldwide as a symbol of Irish heritage and home baking.
Recipe: Perfect Irish Soda Bread
| Ingredient | Metric | Imperial/Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Plain white flour | 250g | 2 cups |
| Plain wholemeal flour | 250g | 2 cups |
| Porridge oats | 100g | 1 cup |
| Bicarbonate of soda | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Butter, cut in pieces | 25g | 2 tbsp |
| Buttermilk | 500ml | 2 cups |
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6/fan 180C and dust a baking sheet with flour. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, then rub in the butter. Pour in the buttermilk and mix it in quickly with a table knife, then bring the dough together very lightly with your fingertips (handle it very, very gently). Shape it into a flat, round loaf measuring 20cm/8in in diameter.
- Place the loaf on the baking sheet and score a deep cross on the top. (Traditionally, this lets the fairies out, but it also helps the bread to cook through.) Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bottom sounds hollow when tapped. If not ready, turn upside down and bake for a few minutes more.
- Transfer to a wire rack, cover with a clean tea towel (this keeps the crust nice and soft) and leave to cool. To serve, break into quarters, then break or cut each quarter in half to make 8 wedges or slices – or simply slice across. Best eaten very fresh.
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Learn to bake authentic Irish scones and bread in a local home in Galway. This is a wonderful way to connect with Irish food culture and bring a real skill home with you.
Book: Traditional Irish Homemade Baking Scones and Bread class in Galway
How to Store Irish Soda Bread
Store your Irish soda bread wrapped in a clean tea towel or in a bread bag at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bread. For longer storage, consider freezing (see below).
Can You Freeze Irish Soda Bread?
Yes, Irish soda bread freezes very well. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in cling film and then in foil or a freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Why Is My Irish Soda Bread Dense?
Dense soda bread usually results from overmixing the dough or using expired baking soda. Mix the ingredients just until combined and ensure your bicarbonate of soda is fresh for the best rise and texture.
Irish soda bread is a wonderful accompaniment to many traditional Irish dishes. Try it alongside a traditional Irish stew recipe or with a hearty Guinness Shepherd’s Pie. For a different take on soda bread, explore Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Raisins or learn to bake Irish Soda Scones for teatime treats.
For more on Irish baking traditions, read about the Irish Baker Abroad and his passion for sharing Irish recipes worldwide.
Discover more about traditional Irish cooking and the rich food heritage that makes Ireland a food lover’s dream destination.
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Carmel
Wednesday 28th of September 2022
Very interested in Irish History, cooking and their music