The Best Breads From Around the World and How to Make Them at Home

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Soda Bread (Ireland)

Irish soda bread is a dense, rustic bread made with baking soda instead of yeast, giving it a hearty texture and a slightly tangy flavor. Traditionally baked with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect when served warm with butter, jam, or alongside a hearty stew. Its quick preparation makes it a go-to recipe for fresh, homemade bread in no time.

Ingredients (for 1 loaf, or 8-10 slices):

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1¾ cups buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it's too dry, add a bit more buttermilk; if too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it just a few times to bring it together (do not over-knead). Shape it into a round loaf about 1½ inches thick. Place the loaf onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (about ½ inch) into the top of the loaf. This allows the bread to expand while baking.
6. Bake the loaf for 30-35 min. or until the bread has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 min. before slicing. Serve warm with butter, jam, or alongside your favorite dish.