make traditional Irish butter | make Irish soda bread | Irish food history | historical recipes

Add plain flour to a large earthenware bowl.

Add a pinch of salt to the flour.

Add a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda and break up any lumps.

Mix thoroughly using a 'rise and fall' action to introduce air.

Optionally add 1 cup of sultanas for sweetness.

Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the buttermilk.

Use a claw-shaped hand to gently bring together the mixture, which will be sticky.

Sprinkle on more flour for easier handling.

Place the dough on a floured baking tray and pat it into a round form, about 4 cm in thickness.

Score a deep cross into the dough for even baking and to allow the fairies to escape.

Gently pry back each cut mark to give the soda bread its distinctive appearance.

Prick each corner of the dough.

Bake in the oven until done.

Equipment Needed

Dietary

Allergens