Irish Brown Soda Bread

Ingredients and Weight:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 cup shredded or crushed dried fruit (optional, such as raisin or cranberry)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the beaten egg, warm water, and oil. Mix well.
4. Add the dried fruit (if using) and mix until just combined.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a round or oval loaf.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet and cut a cross on top (this helps the bread rise evenly).
7. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.

Nutritional Information: (Please note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (assuming a small to medium-sized slice)
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g (including 1g saturated fat)

Dish Characteristics:

• The bread has a unique flavor and texture that combines the crispiness of the crust with a soft and moist interior.
• The dried fruit adds a sweet and slightly tart flavor that pairs well with the bread's hearty taste.
• It is simple to make yet impressive to serve, making it a great choice for a casual meal or a special occasion.

User Comments:

• "This bread was amazing! The flavor was unique and delicious, and it was so easy to make."
• "I love the combination of flavors in this bread, especially the dried fruit. It makes a great accompaniment to dinner."
• "This is a great recipe for a quick and hearty meal. The bread is delicious fresh out of the oven."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use warm water when mixing the dough, as this helps activate the baking soda and creates a lighter bread.
• Do not overmix the dough, as this can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
• For best results, use fresh ingredients and bake in a preheated oven.