Irish Soda Bread

By Hklbrries

Q: I'd like to bake Irish soda bread for my family to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Do you have a foolproof recipe?

P. Browne, via email

A: This easy recipe makes two generous loaves; you can freeze one to enjoy at another time. Soda bread is great toasted and slathered with butter and jam, with a cup of tea. You can also serve it with hearty soups or fruit and cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raisins
• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 2 cups buttermilk

Details

Servings 2
Adapted from epicurious.com

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

Soak raisins in hot water for 5 minutes. Drain.

In a large bowl, sift flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Mix in raisins.

Add buttermilk and stir to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured work surface; knead for 1 minute.

Cut dough in half and form 2 large round loaves. Place on baking sheet. Cut a large X in center of each loaf. Bake for 45 minutes or until a tester comes out clean. Transfer loaves to a wire rack.