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
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- 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.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, around 1 inch thick, and place it on the greased baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, make a deep cross-shaped cut on top of the loaf. This is a traditional mark of Irish bannocks.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bannock is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
- 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.