🍞 Irish Soda Bread 🍞
A savory quick bread that is traditionally made with baking soda, Irish Soda Bread makes a fast and tasty side to go with soups and stews of all kinds, particularly well paired with an Irish-style Guinness Beef Stew. The uniquely mild, almost sour flavor and crumbly, muffin-like texture come from the combination of baking soda and the acids from buttermilk. Sweet currants or raisins balance the flavors out with a bit of sweetness, making the bread a bright, flavorful counterpoint to a heavy stew.
Yields:
10 – 12 servings
Prep Time:
25 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour
Total Time:
1 hour 25 minutes
Ingredients
- Canola oil, for pan
- 2 1/2 c. buttermilk, plus more for brushing
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 c. dried currants
- 3 c. all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 c. whole wheat flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/4 c. wheat germ
- 3 Tbsp. sugar
- 2 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. kosher salt
- 6 Tbsp. cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus more for serving
Directions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a 9-inch cast-iron skillet or cake pan. Whisk together buttermilk and egg in a bowl. Add currants and stir to combine.
Step 2
Whisk together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, wheat germ, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a second bowl. Using your fingertips, rub butter into flour mixture until small pebbles form. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add buttermilk mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon in one direction and gradually incorporating, until combined (dough will be sticky).
Step 3
Using slightly wet hands, shape dough into a ball; transfer to prepared pan. Let rest for 10 minutes. Brush with buttermilk. Cut a large “X” about 1 inch deep in the top of the loaf, wiping the blade with a damp cloth between cuts.
Step 4
Bake until golden brown and the internal temperature registers 195°F to 200°F on an instant-read thermometer, 50 to 60 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack; cool completely. Serve with butter.
Nutritional Benefits
This Irish Soda Bread is not only tasty but also offers:
- Whole Grains: Whole wheat flour and wheat germ provide fiber and nutrients that support digestive health.
- Low Sugar: The low sugar content makes it a healthier option compared to many quick breads.
- Calcium: The buttermilk contributes calcium, important for bone health.
- Energy: The combination of flours and dried fruits provides sustained energy, making it a perfect accompaniment to hearty meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soda bread warm with butter or alongside soups and stews for a delightful meal. It’s also great toasted for breakfast!