Parmesan Onion Soda Bread
Savory soda bread infused with Parmesan cheese and onions offers a crisp crust and tender interior, perfect for cheese lovers and ideal for casual or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chopped onion.
- Cut in margarine or butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Stir in sour cream and milk until just moistened.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a round loaf.
- Place the loaves on the greased baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the loaves with slightly beaten egg white.
- Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese.
- Cut an 'X' about 1/2-inch deep across the top of each loaf.
- Bake at 375°F for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Cool on racks before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese can serve as a substitute. For a touch of sweetness, finely chop a small amount of caramelized onion and mix it into the dough, enhancing the savory notes while keeping it in line with American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This bread pairs beautifully with soups or stews, making it a perfect accompaniment for a hearty vegetable soup. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad, like a Sunset Yogurt Salad, for a light meal. Enjoy it warm, and consider spreading a little butter or olive oil on top for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan Onion Soda Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Onion Soda Bread contains roughly 1464 calories, with 18g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (89% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to add a bit more liquid to the dough since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start with a small amount of extra milk or sour cream if needed.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Parmesan Onion Soda Bread, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure that the baking powder and baking soda are also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid for the right dough consistency.
Can I freeze the bread after baking?
Absolutely! Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
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).