Soda Bread

Best eaten fresh. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil for freezing.

Use buttermilk or milk soured with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar for the best results. The acidity reacts with the baking soda to help it rise.

Don't overmix the dough; a few gentle folds are all that's needed. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough loaf.

Score the top of the loaf with a cross before baking. This helps the bread cook evenly and is a traditional symbol.

Butter

Jam

Cheese

Soups

Stews

Smoked salmon

Using baking powder instead of baking soda. They are not interchangeable.

Overworking the dough, resulting in a tough texture.

Letting the dough sit too long before baking. The leavening action starts immediately upon mixing wet and dry ingredients.