We are moving (slowly, but surely. It was 99° here this week) toward soup and stew season. And when we get there, it’s always nice to serve a fresh loaf of bread alongside a bowl. I only breakout my yeast bread making skills on rare occasions, and certainly not on a busy weeknight. So a good, hearty quick bread recipe is a nice compromise. Simple Irish style Soda Bread is a uncomplicated way to have a fresh loaf on the table. And I always feel exceedingly accomplished when I serve homemade bread, no matter how easy it was to make!
Here, I add some vegetables and a dose of cheese, to really amp up the flavor and interest of this relatively simple loaf. Whole wheat bread adds a nice nuttiness and chew, with the all-purpose flour keeping the crumb light. Mayonnaise adds a little tang, and the rich flavors of Worcestershire sauce add a nice depth. Sometimes I add some chopped herbs to this as well, if I happen to have some around. I love this warm from the oven with a nice swipe of butter melting into the nooks and crannies. It’s also very good with an aged cheddar cheese, so it works alongside a cheese platter. And of course, it is perfect with a warm bowl of comforting soup.
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