Traditional Irish Soda Bread

When I was searching for a recipe for Irish soda bread, the only recipes I could find were those that also called for butter, raisins, caraway seeds, and other add-ins. Traditional Irish Soda Bread is a simple, humble bread made with four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt and buttermilk. But don't let the lack of ingredients (or the rustic appearance) fool you. This bread is an excellent, hearty accompaniment to soups and stews. And yes, it also tastes great with butter and jam.

Irish Soda Bread

4 C. flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 to 1 1/2 C. buttermilk


1) Heat oven to 425 degrees F. Brush a baking sheet with melted butter or spray with non-stick spray.

2) Combine dry ingredients in a deep bowl. Gradually stir in 1 cup buttermilk, beating constantly, until dough is firm enough to be gathered into a ball. If dough crumbles, add up to 1/2 cup more buttermilk, 1 tbsp at a time, until it holds together.

3) Place on a lightly floured board and pat into an 8-inch flattened round loaf.

4) Place loaf on baking sheet and slash a 1/2-inch deep "X" into the top of the dough with a small, sharp knife.

5) Bake at 425 degrees F for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden. Serve hot.