Irish Soda Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (gently scooped and leveled)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 425 F (218 C).

2. 2

   Prepare a baking sheet dusted with flour.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour,...: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Add in the buttermilk and stir until it is just starting to come together (as few strokes as possible so you don’t overwork the dough).

4. 4

   Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface....: Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle the top lightly with flour. Fold the dough in on itself until it turns into a loose ball (as little folds as possible so you don’t overwork the dough). It should be a very rustic ball (expect it to look raggedy or shaggy - it definitely shouldn't be a smooth ball).

5. 5

   Transfer it to the floured baking sheet (you...: Transfer it to the floured baking sheet (you may need to use a dough scraper or spatula to help you lift it). Use a sharp knife to cut a 1” deep “x” into the top of the dough ball.

6. 6

   Bake for 10 minutes.

7. 7

   Turn the temperature down to 375 F (190...: Turn the temperature down to 375 F (190 C) and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.