Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe
Mary Berry’s Soda Bread is a quick and easy recipe that yields a delicious loaf with a crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. This no-fuss recipe requires minimal ingredients and no yeast, making it a perfect choice for beginners or anyone looking for a speedy homemade bread option. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful soda bread.
Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 500 grams |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | 400 milliliters |
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Make sure to position the rack in the center.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet
Dust a baking sheet with a bit of flour or use parchment paper to prevent the soda bread from sticking.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk or fork to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
4. Add Buttermilk
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the buttermilk into the well.
5. Combine the Ingredients
Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix the flour mixture into the buttermilk. Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.
6. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Lightly knead it for about a minute until it comes together, but avoid overworking the dough.
7. Shape the Loaf
Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches thick.
8. Score the Dough
Use a sharp knife to make a deep cross (X) on the top of the loaf. This helps the bread bake evenly.
9. Bake the Soda Bread
Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
10. Reduce Oven Temperature
After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Cool the Bread
Once baked, transfer the soda bread to a wire rack to cool. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
12. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the soda bread and serve it with your favorite spreads, such as butter or jam. It’s best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made.
Tips
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Experiment with adding ingredients like seeds, dried fruits, or herbs to customize the flavor of your soda bread.
- To check if the bread is done, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Soda Bread is a wonderful recipe that allows you to enjoy freshly baked bread without the need for yeast or lengthy rising times. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful loaf that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and indulge in the joy of homemade soda bread!
