When I was 16, my family ventured to Ireland for a 3-week bike trip. It was not a tour, but just my adventurous dad leading us around the country. We camped half the time. We were always hungry after a big ride, and we would love anything our parents would make at camp. This is where my dad uttered his wisdom that I repeat often: "There's nothing like food when you're hungry!" Truer words have never been spoken.
When we stayed in bed and breakfasts, which was a nice break from camping, we loved the breakfasts we were served, at least at first. Eggs, bacon (kind of soft, but very tasty), two sausages, a small glass of orange juice, and brown soda bread. After a while, the lack of variety got a little old (definitely a first world problem), but the brown Irish soda bread was something I looked forward to every day. It filled me up and gave me energy for the day, and I absolutely loved it with good creamy butter. 40+ years later, I still do!
I found this recipe many years ago at recipeland.com. I have not changed it, and it is a super easy bread to have in the house any time.It makes spectacular toast in the morning, and goes well with any soup or salad.
Enjoy.
Mix whole wheat flour, white flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
Stir in oats, make a indentation in the middle
Mix buttermilk and molasses together
Pour buttermilk/molasses into middle of dry ingredients. Mix well with sturdy spoon or even your hands.
Knead 4-5 times on a floured surface.
Shape into round loaf, cut the classic cross on top of the bread with a sharp knife - about one inch deep.
Bake at 425 for 15 minutes. We like to bake it on a pizza stone.
Reduce heat to 350 for 30 minutes
Take it out of the oven and let cool. It's excellent served with butter or reheated as toast.
Servings 12
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.