Savor the rich tradition of Irish soda bread with this low-fat version that maintains all the classic flavors. This rustic bread is perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty loaf without the extra calories. Perfect for breakfast or as a side with your favorite meal, it’s a wholesome treat that brings a touch of Ireland to your table.
Photos of Low Fat Irish Soda Bread Recipe
One key ingredient that might not be in everyone's pantry is buttermilk. It's essential for achieving the right texture and taste in this Irish soda bread. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Ingredients For Low Fat Irish Soda Bread
All purpose flour: A staple in baking that provides structure to the bread.
Whole wheat flour: Adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content.
Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Buttermilk: Provides moisture and a tangy flavor essential for Irish soda bread.
Raisins: Adds a natural sweetness and a chewy texture to the bread.
One reader, Benedikta Gainey says:
This low fat Irish soda bread recipe is fantastic! The bread turned out perfectly golden and deliciously soft. The raisins add a lovely touch of sweetness. It's easy to make and a healthier option too. Highly recommend!
Techniques for Making the Perfect Irish Soda Bread
How to preheat oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the bread inside. How to mix dry ingredients: Use a whisk to combine all the dry ingredients in a large bowl until they are evenly distributed. How to add buttermilk: Gradually pour the buttermilk into the dry mixture while stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. How to knead dough: Lightly knead the dough on a sheet of wax paper or a floured surface for about 1 minute to ensure the raisins are evenly distributed. How to form dough: Shape the dough into a round, slightly flattened form. How to make an X on dough: Use a sharp knife to cut an X about ½ inch deep on the top of the dough. How to test bread doneness: Insert a toothpick into the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is done. How to cool bread: Allow the bread to cool on a baker's rack for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How To Make Low Fat Irish Soda Bread
This Irish soda bread is a great way to get into baking. The low fat recipe also takes the guilt out of eating loads of it after.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsall purpose flour
- 1½cupswhole wheat flour
- 1½tspbaking soda
- 1tspsalt
- 4tbspsugar
- 1½cupsbuttermilk,1%
- ⅔cupraisins
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
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Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl with a whisk.
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Slowly add buttermilk, stirring with a wooden spoon, until a soft dough is formed.
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Add raisins, knead the dough lightly on a sheet of wax paper or a floured surface for about 1 minute.
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Form into a round, slightly flattened shape.
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Place on a cookie sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
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Using a sharp knife, make an X at the top about ½ inch deep. Bake for about 40 minutes, until golden.
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To test if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the bread, if it comes out clean it is done.
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Let it cool on a bakers rack for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 128.27kcal
- Fat: 0.67g
- Saturated Fat: 0.21g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.11g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.20g
- Carbohydrates: 27.78g
- Fiber: 1.86g
- Sugar: 8.40g
- Protein: 3.89g
- Cholesterol: 0.98mg
- Sodium: 173.64mg
- Calcium: 37.63mg
- Potassium: 142.27mg
- Iron: 1.15mg
- Vitamin A: 3.43µg
- Vitamin C: 0.39mg
Crucial Technique for Successful Low Fat Irish Soda Bread
When kneading the dough, be gentle and avoid overworking it. Over-kneading can result in a tough bread. Aim for a light touch to keep the dough soft and tender.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Low Fat Irish Soda Bread
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all flour, sugar, and other dry ingredients ahead of time to streamline the mixing process.
Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to combine the dry ingredients and buttermilk quickly and efficiently.
Soak raisins: Soak the raisins in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the dough to ensure they mix in smoothly.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing the ingredients to save waiting time.
Prepare baking sheet: Line your cookie sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper before you start mixing the dough.
Substitute Ingredients For Low Fat Irish Soda Bread Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: To increase the fiber content and make the bread more nutritious.
whole wheat flour - Substitute with spelt flour: Spelt flour has a slightly nutty flavor and can be a good alternative for those looking for a different taste and texture.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 teaspoons of baking powder for every 1 teaspoon of baking soda, but note that the texture might be slightly different.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile compared to regular table salt.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, but reduce the buttermilk slightly to balance the liquid content.
buttermilk - Substitute with low-fat yogurt: Low-fat yogurt can provide the same tangy flavor and moisture as buttermilk while keeping the fat content low.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a tart flavor that complements the bread and provides a different texture.
Presentation Ideas for Irish Soda Bread
Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the Irish soda bread into smaller, elegant portions to ensure each piece looks refined and inviting.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a light dusting of whole wheat flour around the bread slice to create a rustic yet sophisticated look.
Add a touch of color: Place a few fresh mint leaves or a small cluster of red currants beside the bread slice to add a pop of color and freshness.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the bread on a sleek, modern plate, preferably white or a neutral color, to make the golden crust stand out.
Incorporate texture: Add a small ramekin of low-fat butter or light cream cheese on the side, whipped to a smooth consistency, to complement the bread's texture.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a few raisins and a sprinkle of sugar artfully on the plate to emphasize the key components of the bread.
Create height: Stack two smaller slices of bread slightly askew to add visual interest and dimension to the presentation.
Use a clean, minimalist approach: Ensure the plate is free from crumbs and smudges, focusing on the simplicity and elegance of the bread itself.
Add a touch of warmth: Serve the bread slightly warm, enhancing its aroma and making it more inviting to the palate.
Finish with a flourish: Drizzle a thin line of honey or maple syrup around the plate for a touch of sweetness and a polished finish.
Essential Tools for Making Soda Bread
Oven: Preheat to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to bake the bread.
Large mixing bowl: Mix all dry ingredients together.
Whisk: Combine the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Wooden spoon: Stir in the buttermilk to form a soft dough.
Wax paper: Use for kneading the dough lightly.
Floured surface: Alternative to wax paper for kneading the dough.
Cookie sheet: Place the dough on this for baking.
Silicone baking mat: Line the cookie sheet to prevent sticking.
Parchment paper: Alternative to the silicone baking mat.
Sharp knife: Make an X on the top of the dough.
Toothpick: Test if the bread is done by inserting it into the bread.
Bakers rack: Cool the bread on this for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Storing and Freezing Irish Soda Bread
- Allow the Irish soda bread to cool completely before storing, as any residual heat can create moisture and lead to mold growth.
- Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Store the wrapped bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- If you want to keep the bread fresh for longer, you can freeze it:
- Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the Irish soda bread for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw frozen Irish soda bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
- If you prefer warm bread, you can reheat it in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wrap the thawed bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy.
- Avoid refrigerating Irish soda bread, as the cool temperature can cause it to become stale more quickly.
How To Reheat Leftover Soda Bread
The best way to reheat leftover low fat irish soda bread is to wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to retain the bread's moisture and prevents it from drying out.
Another option is to slice the bread and toast it in a toaster or under the broiler for a few minutes. This works well if you prefer a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Be sure to keep an eye on the bread to prevent it from burning.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the soda bread in the microwave. Wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave it on high for 15-20 seconds, or until it's warm and soft. However, keep in mind that microwaving may cause the bread to become slightly soggy.
For a unique twist, try slicing the leftover irish soda bread and using it to make french toast or bread pudding. These dishes are a delicious way to repurpose the bread and create a new, tasty breakfast or dessert option.
If you have a large amount of leftover soda bread, consider freezing it for later use. Slice the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When you're ready to eat it, simply thaw the bread at room temperature and reheat it using one of the methods mentioned above.
Interesting Fact About Irish Soda Bread
A random fact about this recipe is that Irish soda bread traditionally uses baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast, which makes it quicker to prepare. The addition of raisins in this version adds a touch of sweetness, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or tea time.
Is Making Soda Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This low fat Irish soda bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients such as all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, buttermilk, and raisins are inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $5-$7 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is This Soda Bread Recipe Healthy?
This low-fat Irish soda bread recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. The use of whole wheat flour is a plus, as it provides more fiber and nutrients compared to all-purpose flour. However, the recipe still includes a significant amount of all-purpose flour, which is less nutritious. The addition of raisins provides some natural sweetness and a small amount of fruit, but the overall sugar content is quite high with 4 tablespoons of added sugar.
To make this recipe healthier:
- Replace all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a mixture of whole wheat and other nutrient-dense flours like oat or almond flour
- Reduce the added sugar to 1-2 tablespoons or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Increase the amount of raisins or add other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots for more fiber and nutrients
- Consider adding seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, or chia for a boost of healthy fats and texture
- Brush the top of the bread with beaten egg white instead of butter to achieve a golden crust without added fat
Editor's Opinion on This Low Fat Soda Bread Recipe
This low-fat Irish soda bread recipe is a delightful blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, offering a wholesome texture. The buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the raisins add a touch of natural sweetness. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward method make it accessible for home bakers. The use of minimal sugar and the absence of butter or oil keep it light. The final product, with its golden crust and soft interior, is perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast. Overall, it's a nutritious and flavorful twist on a traditional favorite.
Enhance Your Low Fat Irish Soda Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Low Fat Irish Soda Bread Recipe:
This low fat Irish soda bread recipe is a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Using a mix of whole wheat flour and all purpose flour, it offers a wholesome texture while keeping it light. The buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, and the addition of raisins provides natural sweetness. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in its simplicity and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free bread.
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