Discover the warm, comforting flavors of Ireland with "Mom's Irish Soda Bread with Tangy Green Butter." This delightful recipe not only fills your home with a tantalizing aroma but also brings a touch of tradition to your table. Imagine breaking into a freshly baked loaf with a crispy crust, only to be met with the rich, herb-infused goodness of tangy green butter melting into each slice. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this simple yet scrumptious recipe will have your family begging for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the magic of this iconic Irish treat!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like chives or parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving a nice crust on the soda bread.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the 1 3/4 cups of buttermilk. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute, just until it comes together. Form the dough into a round shape, about
- 5 inches thick.
- Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross on the top of the dough. This helps the bread to bake evenly and allows steam to escape.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should read around 190°F (88°C).
- While the bread is baking, prepare the Tangy Green Butter. In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with the 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley). Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps to set the crumb.
- Slice the warm soda bread and serve it with the Tangy Green Butter spread on top. Enjoy your homemade Irish soda bread with its delightful herb-infused butter!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh buttermilk and herbs. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley will elevate the taste of your Tangy Green Butter.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, so keep it gentle!
- Score the Dough Deeply: When scoring the top of the dough, make sure your cuts are deep enough. This allows for proper expansion and ensures even baking.
- Check for Doneness: The bread is ready when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. If you have a kitchen thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C).
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps set the crumb and makes for cleaner slices.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in your Tangy Green Butter. Basil, dill, or even a hint of garlic can add a unique twist!
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the soda bread warm with the Tangy Green Butter. It’s the perfect pairing for a cozy breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
