Something about this bread. It has stood the test of time as being a filling comfort to families since the invention of baking soda. You may know it by its other two names: Irish Soda Bread and Peasant Bread. However you refer to it, it has magic power in its simplicity, flavor, and restorative texture. It calms the belly, relaxes the brain, and feeds the soul.
This is not drama. Any bread recipe that has withstood history, or better, fed millions over hundreds of years through wars, famine, disease, exhaustion, depression, recession, and celebration, should be top on your list. And it will cost you almost nothing to make it.
"This bread comes out with a hard, bumpy, light-colored crust on the outside--not too pretty. Inside will be dense yet soft, think, Great Grandma's bear hugs. The bread will likely crumble as you slice it, so breaking it apart with your fingers might be best way."
Notes: Flour is all-purpose
SIMPLE SODA BREAD
Ingredients: 2 cups flour, 1 Tbsp. sugar, 1/2 baking soda, 1/2 salt, 3/4 cup buttermilk.
Serves 4.
1. Preheat oven to 375* and line or grease a baking sheet.
2. Whisk the flour, salt, sugar, and baking soda in a large bowl.
3. Make a well and pour in the buttermilk. Mix to combine from the sides in until the dough forms a shaggy ball.
4. Tip the dough out onto the counter and knead for 30 seconds or so.
5. Plop it onto the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
Tip: The most important aspect of the bread is active baking soda. Test by adding a tsp. to 1/2 cup hot water, it should bubble.