Ingredients

2 cups bread flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup dry buttermilk
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup water
1 large egg
2 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon honey
1 3/4 teaspoons yeast ( preferrably fast rising )
3/4 cup currants or 3/4 cup raisins
1 tablespoon caraway seed
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon vital wheat gluten ( optional )
Traditional Irish Soda Bread is a staple food in Ireland and has been enjoyed for centuries. The bread was made using only four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. Today, many variations of the recipe exist, including this one which incorporates whole wheat flour and a bread machine. The addition of currants or raisins and caraway seed adds a unique flavor and texture to this classic recipe. Irish families would serve this bread with a hearty stew or soup, and it was often a way to use up ingredients in the pantry. Today, Irish Soda Bread is popular around the world, particularly on St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

Instructions

1.In a bread machine pan, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, dry buttermilk, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
2.In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, egg, molasses, honey, and yeast.
3.Pour the liquid mixture into the bread machine pan and add the currants or raisins, caraway seed, butter, and vital wheat gluten.
4.Select the Dough setting and press Start. When the cycle is complete, remove the dough from the bread machine.
5.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
6.Knead the dough on a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and cut a cross into the top of the dough.
7.Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8.Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

PROS

Irish Soda Bread is a traditional and easy bread to make that requires no yeast and can be made relatively quickly.

This recipe allows you to use a bread machine, which saves time and effort.

The addition of currants or raisins and caraway seed gives the bread a unique and delicious taste.

CONS

This bread does not have a long shelf life and is best eaten fresh within a few days.

The bread can be quite dense and heavy in texture.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Irish Soda Bread made with whole wheat flour is a healthy alternative to traditional white bread.
The bread is high in fiber which aids in digestion and supports heart health.
The currants or raisins in this recipe also provide additional health benefits, such as antioxidants and vitamins.

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