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Irish Soda Bread

The making of Irish Soda Bread by the lower class of people in Ireland began in the 19th century. This was due to the fact that they suddenly were able to obtain baking soda in the shops.

Although ovens were scarce, they realized that by incorporating baking soda and buttermilk, they could create a plump dough. They then proceeded to cook the dough in a cast iron skillet over an open flame. Here is a recipe for Irish Soda Bread if you care to make a loaf for yourself and/or your family.

Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients

1/2 C white sugar
4 C all-purpose flour….divided
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3 C raisins
1 Tbsp caraway seeds (optional)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/4 C buttermilk
1 C sour cream

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Grease  a 9 inch round baking or cake pan.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine flour (reserve 1 tablespoon), sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt,                 raisins (optional) , and caraway seeds (optional).

4. In a smaller bowl, blend eggs, buttermilk, and sour cream.

5. Stir the liquid mixture into the flour mixture just until flour is moistened.

6. Knead dough in bowl about 10 to 12 strokes. Dough will be sticky.

7. Place the dough in the prepared pan and pat down.

8. Cut a 4 x 3/4 inch deep slit in the top of the bread.

9. Dust with 1 Tbsp flour.

10.Bake in preheated oven for 65 to 75 minutes.

11. Let cool and turn bread out onto a wire rack.