Soda Bread for Kate

Granny McLaughlin and her soda bread, originally uploaded by Danny McL.

By request. First off I assume you don't have an Aga, a cook, a cleaner. This is the recipe I use for soda bread - I must point out I hate buttermilk, and I always end up with milk left over. I won't drink it! Also there is a very easy alternative - Odlum's Soda Mix. It's brilliant and is used all over Ireland. For UK stockists go here.
Anyway, when I want my own I do this;
Set your oven to 200c.
450g plain white flour (or a mix of whole/wheat/plain)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
400 ml buttermilk
Sift all dry stuff into a big bowl and mix.
Slowly add the buttermilk to make a soft dough. Don’t be surprised if not all the milk is used! Once you have it in a ball, put it on a floured baking sheet and kind of flatten it. With a sharp knife cut a deep X into the dough. Sprinkle some plain flour over.
It should take 35/40 mins. (Tap the bottom – if it sounds hollow it’s done). Sometimes the bread may be a bit 'damp' in the centre - don't worry, bread making is an art, combined with science! And it's completely edible.
Let it cool on a rack, but remember soda bread is beautiful eaten warm – with dripping with butter and really good jam! And good strong tea of course.