Wholegrain Soda Bread

When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is my warm, homemade Wholegrain Soda Bread. There’s something incredibly special about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. It takes me back to my childhood, when my grandmother would bake her unique version of this bread every Sunday. The simple ingredients—a few cups of flour, some oats, and a splash of milk—came together to create something magical. I remember teasing her about how there was always a loaf waiting for us after Sunday dinner, and how it would vanish almost instantly. Now, as an adult, I find solace in baking my own Wholegrain Soda Bread, each loaf a tribute to those cherished moments. Baking it feels like a warm hug, reminding me of home and family. The texture is crusty on the outside, yet soft and hearty on the inside, making it perfect for slathering on some butter or enjoying with a thick slice of cheese.

Main Ingredients for Wholegrain Soda Bread

The ingredients in this Wholegrain Soda Bread come together beautifully to create a loaf that is both hearty and wholesome. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the texture and flavor of the bread. The old-fashioned rolled oats give it a rustic charm, while whole-wheat flour adds depth and nutrition. Together, these ingredients yield a satisfying and fulfilling bread that can be enjoyed in many ways.

• Old-fashioned rolled oats – 1 1/4 cups (125g): These oats provide a chewy texture and a nutty flavor, making the bread hearty and filling.
• Raisins or diced dried fruit – 1/2 cup (60g): Adding a touch of sweetness, dried fruit enhances the flavor profile and makes the bread perfect for breakfast.
• Whole or low-fat milk – 1/2 cup, plus two tablespoons (155ml): Milk adds moisture to the dough, ensuring the bread is tender and delicious.
• Lemon zest – Grated zest of 1 lemon: This ingredient brightens the flavor, giving the bread a refreshing hint of citrus.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice – 2 tablespoons: Complementing the zest, the juice adds tanginess and enhances the overall taste.
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon: Salt is essential for balancing flavors, ensuring that the bread isn’t bland.
• Whole-wheat flour – 3/4 cup, plus two tablespoons (125g): The main ingredient, whole-wheat flour provides structure and nutrition.
• Baking soda – 3/4 teaspoon: As a leavening agent, baking soda helps the bread rise, giving it a light texture.

The Method for Wholegrain Soda Bread

Baking Wholegrain Soda Bread is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Follow these detailed steps to create your own delicious loaf:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, dried fruit, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the oats to soften.
2. Once you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will ensure your bread doesn’t stick.
3. Remove the bowl of soaked oats from the refrigerator. You’ll notice that the oats have absorbed some of the milk and softened significantly.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the whole-wheat flour and baking soda. This combination will provide the necessary structure for your bread.
5. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the oat mixture until a cohesive dough begins to form. If the dough appears too dry, you may need to add a tablespoon of milk to help it come together.
6. Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured countertop. Use your clean hands to knead the dough gently, just enough to shape it into a round. Don’t over-knead, as you want to maintain a tender texture.
7. Sprinkle some flour over the top of the round of dough. Flatten the top slightly with your hand. Using a sharp serrated knife, make two deep slashes (about 3/4-inch/2cm) to form a cross on the top of the loaf. This helps the bread expand while baking.
8. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by turning the bread over and tapping the bottom. When it sounds hollow, it’s ready!
9. Cool the bread on a wire rack. This will allow the steam to escape, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips to enhance your experience with Wholegrain Soda Bread:

• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can also be toasted the next day.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve your bread with homemade jam, honey, or a selection of cheeses for a delightful snack.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist or spices like cinnamon for a sweeter bread.
• Personal Touch: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients, whether it’s seeds, nuts, or different types of dried fruit.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve your Wholegrain Soda Bread, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas:

• Breakfast Delight: Pair it with butter and your favorite jam for a comforting breakfast option.
• Hearty Lunch: Serve alongside a bowl of soup or stew for a satisfying and filling meal.
• Cheese Board Star: Include it in a cheese board for gatherings, where its rustic texture complements a variety of cheeses.
• Snack Time: Enjoy it toasted as a quick snack, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Perfect for Any Season: This bread is wonderful year-round, making it a staple for both cozy winter evenings and summer picnics.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Wholegrain Soda Bread embodies warmth and comfort, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give this simple yet rewarding recipe a try. It’s not only a delightful bread to enjoy but also a wonderful way to connect with cherished memories of home.

Wholegrain Soda Bread

The ultimate comfort food, this Wholegrain Soda Bread is a warm and hearty delight. With its crusty exterior and soft, nourishing interior, it's the perfect addition to any meal or a delightful snack on its own. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Irish

Servings 1 loaf

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/4 cups Old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup Raisins or diced dried fruit
• 1/2 cup Whole or low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons Whole or low-fat milk
• 1 large Grated zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 3/4 cup Whole-wheat flour
• 3/4 teaspoon Baking soda

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, dried fruit, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Remove the bowl of soaked oats from the refrigerator.
• In a small bowl, mix together the whole-wheat flour and baking soda.
• Stir in the flour into the oat mixture until it starts to come together. If the dough seems dry, add a tablespoon of milk to help it bind.
• Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured countertop and knead gently to shape it into a round.
• Flatten the top slightly with your hand, and use a sharp serrated knife to make two deep slashes to form a cross on the loaf.
• Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
• Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
• Tip 2: Freeze the bread for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Serve with homemade jam, honey, or a selection of cheeses.
• Tip 4: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
• Tip 5: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients.

Keyword easy bread recipe, healthy baking, Homemade Bread, Wholegrain Soda Bread