Traditional Irish Bannock: A Hearty and Delicious Bread Recipe

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Get a taste of traditional Irish cooking with this authentic Irish Bannock recipe. Made with simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk, this hearty and delicious bread is a staple in Irish cuisine. With a history dating back centuries, Irish bannock is loved for its rustic texture and rich flavor. It's perfect for breakfast, served warm with butter and jam, or as a side dish with soups and stews. This recipe will guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring your bannock turns out soft, fluffy, and utterly delightful.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups buttermilk

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Slowly pour in the buttermilk, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface until it comes together.
  4. Shape the dough into a round loaf, around 1 inch thick, and place it on the greased baking sheet.
  5. Using a sharp knife, make a deep cross-shaped cut on top of the loaf. This is a traditional mark of Irish bannocks.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bannock is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  7. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Slice and serve warm with butter and your favorite spread or use it as a side with soups and stews.

Interesting Facts

  • Irish bannock has been a staple in Irish households for hundreds of years, with various regional variations.
  • The cross-shaped cut on top of the bread is said to ward off evil spirits.
  • Traditionally, bannocks were cooked on a griddle over an open fire, but this oven-baked version is just as delicious.