History of Irish Soda Bread:

The traditional soda bread has had a relatively short history; however, its powerful impact on Irish culture is one to remember. Before the 1800s, the Native Americans were the first to use a soda, theirs being Pearl Ash, to make bread rise. Thus technically making soda bread is of Native American origin. Decades later, the Irish suffered a horrible famine. The Irish, trying to save money, created a bread using only four ingredients, one being baking soda, to make soda bread. So, In 1936, the Irish unknowingly adopted a Native American food for themselves in a time of crisis. It was a staple food, and slowly but surely began to popularize in America. Soon, multiple recipes and tips appeared on how to make the semi-popular, cost-efficient soda bread. It became an everyday bread for both Americans and the Irish alike. Today, unlike in the past, people use soda bread as a way to celebrate Catholic holidays. 

Irish Soda Bread

Traditional Irish Soda Bread is a dense and moist bread that requires no rising time and just four simple ingredients to make. Even better, it’s ready in just 45 minutes, start to finish. 

Prep Time10 MINUTES

Cook Time35 MINUTES

Total Time45 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

1x2x3x pan 

• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons salt*
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup raisins (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. First, preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Then, in a large bowl whisk together 2 1/2 cups flour, salt, and baking soda. After, add in your buttermilk and raisins (if using) and stir until it just comes together. Turn out onto lightly floured surface and knead until it forms a smooth ball. In the meanwhile, add more flour as necessary to achieve a dough that is firm and not sticky. Dust the outside with flour and place on an un-greased baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to slash a 1 inch deep cross on top of the loaf.
3. Finally, bake in oven for 35 minutes or until golden brown. 

Works Cited

“Happy St. Patrick’s Day-Irish Soda Bread Is a Tradition.” Saint Patrick Catholic Church and School, 2023, www.saintpats.org/parish/happy-st-patricks-day-irish-soda-bread-is-a-tradition/. Accessed 16 Feb. 2023.

“Irish Soda Bread.” The Stay at Home Chef, Rachel Farnsworth, 2023, thestayathomechef.com/irish-soda-bread/. Accessed 16 Feb. 2023.

O’Dywer, Edward J. “History of Soda Bread.” The Society for the Preservation of Irish Soda Bread, Society for Preservation of Irish Soda Bread, 2003, sodabread.info/history. Accessed 16 Feb. 2023.

Tilghman, Mary K. “Our Daily Bread: Irish Tradition Enjoyed on More than St. Patrick’s Day.” Catholic Review, Catholic Review Media, 2023, catholicreview.org/our-daily-bread-irish-tradition-enjoyed-on-more-than-st-patricks-day/. Accessed 16 Feb. 2023.