A Hearty Irish Bread: A Foolproof Recipe

A Hearty Irish Bread: A Foolproof Recipe

If you are looking for a delicious and satisfying bread recipe, look no further than this hearty Irish brown bread. This recipe, a staple of the Ballymaloe Cookery School in Cork, Ireland, is not only easy to make but also foolproof, ensuring that anyone can create a loaf of bread that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need:

• 2 cups of whole wheat flour
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 cups of buttermilk

Instructions

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about a minute, just until it comes together and becomes less sticky.
5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross into the top of the loaf.
6. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Irish brown bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be enjoyed with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Spread some Irish butter or jam on a slice for a simple and classic treat.
• Pair it with a bowl of soup or a hearty stew for a comforting and filling meal.
• Toast slices of the bread and serve them alongside a traditional Irish breakfast.
• Use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches, topped with your favorite ingredients.

Conclusion

Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this foolproof Irish brown bread recipe is sure to become a favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a delicious and hearty loaf of bread that captures the essence of Ireland. So why not give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Ballymaloe Cookery School in the comfort of your own home?