Nigel Slater Soda Bread
Nigel Slater’s Soda Bread is a traditional Irish-style bread made using bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) as a leavening agent instead of yeast. This results in a quick and easy loaf with a thick crust and a tender crumb that’s best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Scale
- 250g (2 cups) plain flour
- 250g (2 cups) wholemeal flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
- 400ml (1¾ cups) buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp honey or treacle (optional, for a slightly sweet flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
- Lightly dust a baking sheet with flour.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix plain flour, wholemeal flour, salt, and bicarbonate of soda.
- Stir well to ensure the soda is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Buttermilk
- Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk and honey/treacle (if using).
- Stir with a wooden spoon until a soft, sticky dough forms.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Lightly flour your hands and gently shape the dough into a round loaf.
- Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Score the Top
- Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top of the dough.
- This helps the bread expand as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the soda bread cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with butter, cheese, or soup.
Find it online: https://britishrecipeshub.co.uk/nigel-slater-soda-bread/