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Irish Soda Bread: A Brief History, Recipe and How to Keep Fresh for longer

 

Irish soda bread is a traditional bread that has been enjoyed in Ireland for centuries. It is a quick and easy bread to make, and it has a unique flavor and texture that sets it apart from other breads. In this blog post, we will explore a brief history of Irish soda bread, provide a recipe for making your own, and offer tips on how to keep it fresh.

History of Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread was first made in the mid-1800s.  At that time, traditional leavening agents like yeast were not available. Instead, they used baking soda and buttermilk to make their bread rise. The result was a simple, rustic bread that was perfect for everyday meals. In Irish folklore, the cross on top of the soda bread is believed to have protective powers against evil spirits, including fairies and the devil.

Recipe for Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients:
  • 4 cups flour

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda.

  3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly for 1-2 minutes.

  5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  6. Use a sharp knife to score an 'X' on the top of the loaf.

  7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

  8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

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How to Keep Irish Soda Bread Fresh

Irish soda bread is best eaten fresh, but it can be kept for a few days if stored properly. Here are some tips on how to keep your bread fresh:

  • Wrap the bread tightly a large beeswax wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also store your bread wrapped up in a beeswax wrap in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

  • Store the bread at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

  • If the bread starts to become stale, revive it by sprinkling a little water on the crust and reheating it in the oven for a few minutes.

In conclusion, Irish soda bread is a delicious and easy bread to make that has a rich history in Ireland. With this recipe and tips on how to keep it fresh, you can enjoy this traditional bread anytime.

March 15, 2023 — Jennifer Doyle
Spring tablescape

Home Inspiration: A beautiful Spring table setting

Looking for inspiration to decorate your table this Spring?

We are delighted to team up with talented designer and stylist Sarah from Retwiggd to bring you our Spring table setting. Sarah created the most beautifully styled table using Millbee's beeswax candles, organic napkins, Spring blossoms from her garden, old bottles, and vintage pots.

 Spring_table

The warm Spring colours and botanical prints add a beautiful freshness to the table. 

Yellow with Pink

Two of the colors I most associate with Spring are pink and yellow. We are surrounded by yellow daffodils and pink blossoms which are welcome after the muted and dark winter tones. In colour psychologypink and yellow are signs of hope. They are positive colours that inspire warm and comforting feelings, a sense that all will be well. Pink is also associated with love so I say yes to bringing more of this into the home! Have fun and mix more vibrant hues with darker ones. 

Botanical Prints

If you want to create the feeling of an abundance of flowers you can use botanical prints along with fresh blossoms. Don't be afraid to layer prints as Sarah did using Millbee's napkins and pink Burleigh print plate. 

 Spring_table

Millbee's organic cotton and hemp napkins

All about the Bees

Many people associate Springtime with bees. We love to see them buzzing around fresh blossoms after a long Winter indoors. You can also introduce these amazing creatures into your home through decorations. Botanical prints, bees and butterflies have featured for hundreds of years in our home decorations and are timeless. 

If you would like to get started on creating a seasonal display or gift to your favorite food lover we have 5% OFF Millbee's Food Lovers Giftset - Use the code TABLE5

March 25, 2022 — Jennifer Doyle