Brown Soda Bread – Traditional Irish Bread Recipe
This brown soda bread is a classic traditional Irish bread recipe. Made with wholemeal flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, it’s hearty, wholesome, and perfect with butter or soup.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet or cast-iron skillet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 3 cups wholemeal flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1¾ cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- In a large bowl, mix wholemeal flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into a round loaf.
- Place on baking sheet and score a deep cross across the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
- Tap the bottom—if it sounds hollow, the bread is done.
- Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or alongside soups and stews.
Notes
- Don’t over-knead; soda bread should be rustic.
- Substitute buttermilk with milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice if needed.
- Add seeds, oats, or raisins for variation.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Scoring the loaf helps it bake evenly and honors tradition.