Boy, do I have a treat for you guys today! You know those recipes that always make you feel like home? The ones that are perfect just the way they are, no tweaking needed. The recipes you take special care of because they’re handwritten. I mean seriously, is there anything better than a handwritten recipe someone shares with you? Well, today I’m sharing my dear friend Peggy’s recipe for traditional Irish brown bread. Although I’ll take a slice or two of this any day, it’s a must on Saint Patrick’s Day.
I must start by telling you I’ve never been a fan of soda bread. That all changed a few years back when I tried Peggy’s brown bread. Peggy is my mom’s friend from Cavan, Ireland, and in my book she is considered family. What better person to go to when in search of traditional Irish soda bread! Luckily, Peggy shared her recipe with me, so now I get to share it with you!
Now for the bread. It’s comforting and flavorful with just the right amount of sweetness. It has a lovely texture from the wholemeal and when baked, takes on this beautiful golden crust. Just in case you’re not familiar with wholemeal, it’s a coarsely ground, soft red whole wheat flour which is often used in Ireland’s signature brown breads. It gives the bread this earthy, kind of rustic quality I adore. Another thing I absolutely love about this bread is how quick and easy it is to make. Just combine all the ingredients, shape it into a round and send it off to bake.
All that’s left to do is cut into it and add a nice pat of butter and jam. I take mine with a little whiskey butter and a side of hot tea, and I think it’s even better on a rainy day like today. Whether you pair it with a traditional Irish breakfast or serve it with dinner, it’s a great recipe for Saint Patrick’s Day. I hope you enjoy it!
Ingredients
- 2 cups AP flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups wholemeal
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 ounces unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients together in bowl.
- Stir in melted butter, beaten egg, and buttermilk.
- Turn dough onto work surface and knead just until it comes together.
- Shape dough and score it with a paring knife.
- Place on a sheet pan and bake at 350 degrees for 65-70 minutes.
Jennifer @ Peanut Butter and Peppers says
That is so nice of your friend to share her recipe with you! It looks amazing and so simple to make! I have to try it! I LOVE bread, especially a nice healthy one! Just one question, what is wholemeal? I have almond meal, will that work? I have wheat germ? Not sure what to do with that ingredient.
Thanks!!
bblondie says
Wholemeal is a coarsely ground, soft red whole wheat flour. You can order it from King Arthur Flour: http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-irish-style-wholemeal-flour-3-lb#3455#
Jennifer @ Peanut Butter and Peppers says
Thank you!!!!!!!
Kayle (The Cooking Actress) says
Mmmm bread is always so comforting, especially when it’s a recipe from a friend!
Patricia @ ButterYum says
Yummo – my father talks about his aunt’s brown bread so I’m looking forward to trying this recipe soon. Might I make a suggestions about the recipe? It might be helpful to clarify the fact that wholemeal is also known as whole-wheat flour.
Maureen says
Meghan this looks absolutely delicious!! I’ve been wanting to try to make brown bread – and I am excited to try yours! It looks just like one of my Mom’s cakes! thank you!!
bblondie says
Thanks Maureen! I hope you enjoy it!
ashley - baker by nature says
I am such a sucker for a good soda bread, and this one looks out-of-control!!!
bblondie says
Thanks girl!
Jackie l FoodWineFashion.com says
This doesn’t look that terribly difficult! I am always nervous about making breads at home – they are so intimidating. I may have to give this a try on Sunday 🙂
xo Jackie
http://www.FoodWineFashion.com
Gerry @ Foodness Gracious says
Awesome and I love the slather of butter, a must have for me 🙂
Jessica @ A Kitchen Addiction says
Love a good brown bread! This looks amazing!
Emily Armstrong says
Recipe for Peggy’s wheaten bread please