How to Make Authentic Irish Country Bread at Home
Growing up, my grandmother would often bake Irish country bread on chilly Sunday mornings. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house was a comforting embrace that made the world feel right. This recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories, the warmth, and the love that goes into every loaf. Today, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, so you can create your own moments of joy.
What Makes It Special
This Irish country bread recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples, this bread is accessible to everyone.
- Rustic Texture: The combination of whole wheat and white flour gives it a hearty, satisfying bite.
- Quick to Make: With no yeast required, you can whip up a loaf in under an hour!
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
Let’s Get Cooking
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
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Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Stir until the dough comes together.
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Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1 minute until it forms a soft ball.
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Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Cut a deep cross on top with a sharp knife.
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Bake for 30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter!
My Pro Tips
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For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the dough.
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If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
What to Serve With It
- Homemade jam or marmalade
- Irish stew
- A hearty soup, like potato leek
- A cup of strong Irish tea
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.
The Heart of the Dish
This Irish country bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to my roots and a way to share love with family and friends. Each loaf carries the warmth of tradition and the joy of togetherness. I hope you find as much happiness in baking and sharing this bread as I do.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn to bring a piece of Ireland into your kitchen! Try this recipe, make it your own, and don’t forget to share your experiences. I’d love to hear how your bread turns out!
How to Make Authentic Irish Country Bread at Home
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- Homemade jam or marmalade
- Irish stew
- A hearty soup, like potato leek
- A cup of strong Irish tea
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt together.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk.
- Stir until the dough comes together, then knead gently on a floured surface for about 1-2 minutes.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cut a deep cross into the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving with jam, stew, or soup.
Nutrition Information
