Garlic Soda Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 200°C. Roast the garlic cloves with 1 tbsp olive oil at 180°C for 20 minutes until soft and golden, then let cool slightly and mince finely.

   Tip: Roast garlic while preparing other ingredients to save time.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and chopped herbs until well combined.

   Tip: Sift the flour if it's clumpy to avoid lumps in your dough.

3. 3

   Create a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Using a wooden spoon, gently stir in circular motions until a shaggy dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.

   Tip: The dough should be sticky but manageable; don't knead excessively.

4. 4

   Fold the roasted minced garlic and remaining 2 tbsp olive oil into the dough with a few gentle strokes until evenly distributed.

   Tip: Preserve the light, airy texture by using minimal mixing movements.

5. 5

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf about 5cm tall. Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

   Tip: Handle the dough minimally; rustic, slightly uneven shapes are characteristic of soda bread.

6. 6

   Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross into the top of the loaf, cutting about 1cm deep. Drizzle with honey and a light brush of olive oil.

   Tip: The cross allows steam to escape and helps the bread cook evenly.

7. 7

   Bake at 200°C for 40-45 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

   Tip: Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly before the inside is cooked.

8. 8

   Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb structure to set properly.