Baking Recipes - Soda Bread with Oatmeal Recipe

Ingredients

Makes 1 small loves

• 375 g/12 oz plain whole meal flour, plus extra for dusting

• 50 g/2 oz pinhead oatmeal

• 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 300 ml/1/2 pint buttermilk or natural yogurt

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Method:

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, oatmeal, bicarbonate of soda and salt. Make a well in the centre and gradually work in the buttermilk or yogurt to form a soft dough.

2. Turn out on to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 5 minutes until the dough is smooth.

3. Shape the dough into a flattish round and place on a greased baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, slash a cross on the top of the bread and place in a preheated oven, 230°C (450°F), Gas Mark 8, for 15 minutes.

4. Reduce the temperature to 200°C (400°F), Gas Mark 6 and continue to bake for a further 30 minutes until the bread is risen and golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the base.

5. Wrap the bread in a clean tea towel and leave to cool completely on a wire rack. Slice and serve with butter and jam or marmalade.