Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients and Weight:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 cup whole milk yogurt or buttermilk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup shredded wheat or oats (optional, for added texture and nutrition)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 2 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, yogurt or buttermilk, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. If adding shredded wheat or oats, mix them in at this stage.
5. On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet.
6. Score an "X" on top of the loaf using a sharp knife. This is a traditional mark that helps the bread rise evenly.
7. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving: 1 slice)

• Calories: Approx. 250-300 (depending on the addition of shredded wheat or oats)
• Fat: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Protein: 7-9g

Dish Characteristics:

• This bread is light, airy, and has a slightly tangy taste due to the yogurt or buttermilk.
• The addition of shredded wheat or oats gives it a unique texture and adds nutritional value.
• It pairs well with most meals, especially those with rich flavors, to balance out the taste.

User Comments:

1. "This bread is so easy to make and tastes amazing! The addition of oats gives it a nice crunch."
2. "I love the tangy taste of the yogurt in this bread. It's a great pairing with my morning coffee."
3. "This is a great dish for beginners. The steps are easy to follow and the outcome is impressive."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use fresh ingredients for best results. Check the expiration dates of the yogurt or buttermilk before using.
• Do not overmix the dough; this can lead to a dense bread. Mix until just combined.
• For best results, use a non-stick baking sheet or line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.