Soda bread has been a staple in Ireland for a long time. When you mix baking soda and buttermilk, it acts as a leavening agent therefore not needing yeast. A cross is cut into the top to help let it rise, or with the rich Christian heritage of Ireland, a cross will ward off evil. I have tried a LOT of soda bread recipes, and feel this one, found in an old cookbook from Ireland, to be the most consistent and the tastiest and has become a regular on St. Patrick’s day but throughout the year as well.
Irish Soda Bread
3 2/3 cups AP flour
1 t kosher salt
1 t baking soda
1 3/4 cups buttermilk
Place all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl and give it a good stir to incorporate. Make a well in the center and add most of the buttermilk. Mix together with your hands. The dough should be soft but not too wet. If necessary, add the rest of the buttermilk.
Turn the dough onto a floured board and knead lightly. Should be roughly 8 inches round and then make a cross cut across the top with a knife.
Bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapping the bottom. Let cool slightly and serve with lots of butter.
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