Irish (Norwegian) Soda Bread
This Irish (Norwegian) Soda Bread is a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring the sweetness of raisins and the aromatic hint of caraway seeds. It's perfect for breakfast or as a cozy accompaniment to tea or coffee, making it an ideal treat for any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- Grease an 8 1/2-inch pan (preferably an iron frying pan).
- Mix dry ingredients.
- Add raisins and caraway seed.
- Mix well until raisins are coated with flour.
- Combine eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
- Add to dry ingredients and mix lightly until moistened.
- Turn batter into the pan and shape round.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Serve slices buttered with a good cup of coffee or tea.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour. You can also substitute the buttermilk with yogurt mixed with a little water if needed. To enhance the flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest or chopped nuts to the dough. Ensure not to overmix after adding the wet ingredients, as this can lead to a denser bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this Irish Soda Bread buttered alongside a good cup of coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or a fresh salad, such as a light Colombian Salad. For a special treat, enjoy it with homemade jam or honey. This bread also makes an excellent base for breakfast sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply slice and toast lightly or warm in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish (Norwegian) Soda Bread contains roughly 657 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1749mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, currants, or chopped apricots. Just ensure that the total amount remains the same, as it helps maintain the bread's texture and moisture.
What can I do if I don't have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using it in your recipe.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it has risen and is golden brown on top. You can also perform a toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).