Fruit and Spice Soda Bread

Treat yourself to the delicious flavors of Fruit & Spice Soda Bread, a true Irish classic. With its unique twist, this loaf is leavened with baking soda instead of yeast, resulting in a wonderfully dense and moist consistency. Enriched with a sweet and warming spice blend, it is an irresistible treat for the senses. The addition of plump, juicy fruit and hearty oats provides a wonderful textural contrast and makes every bite a pure delight. Enjoy this delicious bread plain or spread with butter as the perfect accompaniment to a leisurely afternoon tea.

Ingredients

100g oatmeal porridge
25g butter, diced
200g plain flour
200g wholemeal flour, plus some flour for dusting
100g powdered sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1½ tsp spice mixture
50g raisins
50g sultanas
50 g pitted dates, finely chopped
3 tbsp mixed peel
450 ml buttermilk
3-4 tbsp demerara sugar

Preparation steps

Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.
Combine the oatmeal and butter in a food processor or rub the butter into the oats in a large bowl with your fingertips.
Stir in flour, powdered sugar, bicarb, spice mix, 1 teaspoon salt, raisins, sultanas, dates and mixed zest.
Pour the buttermilk over it and quickly stir in with a round knife.
Place on a flour-dusted surface and gently knead into a ball with your hands.
Place on a baking tray dusted with flour, sprinkle the Demerara sugar on top and press on top.
Using a sharp knife dusted with flour, cut a large cross into the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the outside is crispy.
Eat warm or cold, cut into thick slices, with butter.

Nutritional Information

Equipment and tools

mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
pastry cutter or a fork
baking tray
parchment paper
Bread knife

Allergen information

This fruit and spice soda bread recipe contains the following allergens:

butter (milk)
Wheat flour (gluten)
Oats (gluten)
Raisins (sulfites)
Sultanas (sulfites)
Pitted dates (tree nuts)

Storage and leftovers

To properly store your Fruit and Spice Soda Bread and extend its shelf life, follow these steps:

After baking, allow the bread to cool completely.
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store the bread in a cool, dry place, such as a bread bin or pantry.
The bread can be kept for up to 3 days.

Health Benefits of Fruit and Spice Soda Bread

Fruit & Spice Soda Bread is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional bread. Packed with healthy ingredients, it offers a range of health benefits that contribute to a balanced diet. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main reasons why this bread can be a great addition to your everyday life.

1. Fiber-rich whole grains

This soda bread recipe contains both plain flour and plain whole wheat flour. Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes intestinal activity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can help prevent constipation and maintain a healthy weight.

2. Nutrient-rich raisins and sultanas

The addition of raisins and sultanas to this recipe not only adds a touch of natural sweetness, but also provides important nutrients. These dried fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. They are particularly rich in potassium, iron and vitamin C.

3. Natural sweetness from dates

Pitted dates are finely chopped and incorporated into this soda bread, offering a natural and healthier alternative to refined sugar. Not only are dates a great source of natural sweetness, but they also provide fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides a slower release of energy.

4. Spicy mixed peel

Mixed peels are another ingredient that gives this soda bread a delicious burst of flavor. The peel comes from citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons and offers a zesty and tangy taste. Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content, which supports the immune system and promotes collagen production.

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5. Calcium-rich buttermilk

This recipe uses buttermilk instead of regular milk, which not only improves the flavor of the bread but is also a good source of calcium. Calcium is essential for bone health and ensures strong bones and teeth. It also plays an important role in muscle function and nerve transmission.

6. Low added sugar

Fruit & Spice Soda Bread contains a moderate amount of sugar from powdered sugar and demerara sugar. However, it is important to note that this bread is not overly sweet, making it a suitable choice for those who want to limit their sugar consumption without compromising on taste.

Overall, Fruit & Spice Soda Bread is a nutritious option that combines the benefits of whole grains, dried fruits and natural sweetness. Its fiber content, vitamins and minerals make it a complete addition to a balanced diet. So why not try this delicious bread and enjoy its many health benefits?