Irish Soda Bread

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I’m sharing the Irish Soda Bread recipe passed down by my grandmother. Nanny brought this recipe with her when she emigrated from Ireland. It’s been enjoyed at many family events.

Some like to put butter on it, but I prefer it plain. Many swear a cup of tea with milk is the right accompaniment.

Traditional Irish Soda Bread is a type of quick bread. Instead of yeast for leavening, baking soda is used.

NANNY NORA’S IRISH SODA BREAD

5 ½ cups of Flour
1 teaspoon of Cream of Tartar
1 ½ teaspoons of baking soda
3 teaspoons of baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ to ¾ cup sugar
1 pound of raisins
1 quart of buttermilk

MIX WELL.

Bake at 325 degrees in 2 greased loaf pans for 1 hour, 10 minutes or until a toothpick put into the bread comes out clean.

Let cool. Wrap in foil for several hours, or overnight, for best flavor.