Soda bread

Today I was looking to make a simple bread that could be used in the case of having no yeast. There is always sour dough of course but that takes weeks to develop a starter and then of course 12hrs plus to get it ready to bake. What does one do when funds, supplies or time is limited and you still need bread? You turn to an old standby. Irish Soda Bread. It’s actually a very simple recipe and from start to finish, the bread can be done in about an hour. You can add raisins or other dried fruit if you wish to make something more savory but I opted for a simple bread that will be good with the homemade tomato soup I’m making tonight. So here is my recipe. Irish Soda Bread 3c flour 1c Butter milk 1 egg 1t Baking soda 1T Sugar (optional) .5t Salt (note 1/2 teaspoon salt) Couple pats of butter Combine all ingredients. Mix and knead for 5mins. If dough is sticky, add a little more flour. Shape into a round loaf and score the top with an X fairly deep. Place into a greased (or use parchment paper) cast iron skilled or a smaller Dutch oven without the lid. Let rest 5-10 mins. Baked in a preheated 400 degree oven for 45mins or until done. Let cool before slicing. You Must have buttermilk for this recipe. It works with the soda to make the bread rise. If you don’t have any, make a substitute by taking a cup of 2% or whole milk and add a tablespoon or so of lemon juice or white vinegar to it. Mix. Let sit it for 5mins before using. You’ll notice the milk thicken. Most of us have the above ingredients on hand at all times as they are simple pantry basics. This bread is a simple way to keep you and yours fed with minimal investment. I hope you enjoy it! Stay safe, stay busy, stay secure.