Herb-Infused Irish Soda Bread

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Herb-Infused Irish Soda Bread brings a fragrant twist to a classic favorite. This recipe is quick to make, requiring no yeast, and it offers a delightful herbal aroma perfect for any season.

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Irish Soda Bread

The base of this bread is all-purpose flour, which gives it structure. Baking soda acts as the leavening agent, working its magic with the acidity of the buttermilk to create a soft and tender crumb. A touch of granulated sugar balances the savory herbs, while unsalted butter adds richness. The real stars here are the fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, and parsley. They infuse the bread with a lovely, aromatic quality that you'll notice with every bite.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don't have buttermilk, a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice will do the trick.
  • Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
  • Mix just until the dough comes together to prevent a dense loaf.
  • If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half for each.

Serving Suggestions

This soda bread pairs wonderfully with a hearty beef stew or a creamy potato soup. For a lighter option, serve it with a selection of cheeses and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
What if I don't have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used; just remember to use half the amount.
How should I store the bread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Herb-Infused Irish Soda Bread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This is essential to ensure the bread bakes evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar until they're well combined. Add in your chopped herbs—rosemary, thyme, and parsley—making sure they're evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.

Next, create a well in the center of your flour mixture. Pour the buttermilk and melted butter into this well. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix until a dough forms. It's important not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead it for about a minute. This isn't a vigorous knead—just enough to bring the dough together. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on your prepared baking sheet. With a sharp knife, score a deep X on the top of the loaf. This helps the bread expand as it bakes.

Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. The bread is done when it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Once out of the oven, transfer it to a wire rack to cool before slicing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • No need to wait for dough to rise - enjoy fresh bread in under an hour.
  • The combination of fresh herbs adds a gourmet touch without extra effort.
  • Perfect for complementing soups, stews, or a simple spread of butter.
  • A great way to use up any leftover herbs you have in the kitchen.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley until evenly distributed.
4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk and melted butter.
5. Mix with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Do not overmix.
6. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead for about 1 minute.
7. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Use a sharp knife to score a deep X on the top of the loaf.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Allow to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

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