I was fortunate enough to spend last spring studying abroad in Northern Ireland, a semester which was made complete by a trip to Dublin on St. Paddy’s day. As March 17 is right around the corner, it seems only appropriate to share a recipe for a classic Irish soda bread.
Ingredients:
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Add the flour, salt, and baking soda to a large mixing bowl. Whisk to combine thoroughly.
Using a wooden spoon, make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the buttermilk into the “well.” Gently stir the ingredients together, starting at the center of the bowl and working your way out. At this point, the dough will be pretty shaggy.
Pour the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Use your hands to gently knead the dough about four times, or until it comes together and the surface is slightly smoother. Use the palms of your hands to shape the dough into a round loaf.
Transfer the loaf to your prepared baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle the top with flour. Then, using a sharp chef’s knife, carve a large “X” into the top of your dough.
Place the tray into the oven and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes is up, lower the oven temperature to 400°F, rotate the pan 180°, and bake for another 25-30 minutes until the loaf is a deep golden brown.
Allow the bread to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving with a generous serving of Irish butter.