Rachel Allen’s Irish Soda Bread

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 25

Rachel Allen's authentic Irish Soda Bread recipe

by The Chefin Bread

Prep

10 min

Cook

45 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour ( plus extra for dusting )
	1 teaspoon sugar ( superfine or regular granulated )
	1 teaspoon baking soda
	1 teaspoon salt
	1 1/2 - 2 cups buttermilk or 1 1/2-2 cups soured milk

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

236

Sugar

Fat

Irish soda bread is a traditional quick bread made in Ireland since the 19th century. It is leavened with baking soda and buttermilk, and requires no yeast. This recipe from Rachel Allen is authentic and easy to follow. The bread is best eaten fresh on the day it is made, and is perfect served with butter and jam or alongside a hearty soup or stew. With its crunchy crust and soft, crumbly interior, Irish soda bread is a favorite among bread lovers.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2.	Mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3.	Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the buttermilk or sour milk.
4.	Mix to form a soft dough, adding more buttermilk or milk if necessary.
5.	Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface for a minute.
6.	Shape it into a round or oval shape about 2 inches (5cm) thick.
7.	Place on a lightly floured baking sheet and mark a cross in the top of the dough.
8.	Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is cooked through and sounds hollow when tapped underneath.

PROS

Irish soda bread is quick and easy to make, and requires no yeast.

It can be served with a variety of dishes.

CONS

Freshly-baked soda bread has a short shelf life, and dries out quickly.

It is best eaten on the day it is made.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Irish soda bread contains whole-grain flour, which is high in fiber and may promote heart health.
It is also low in fat and sugar compared to other breads.