Irish Soda Bread and St Patrick's Day!

Hello, my name is Christian Owens and this is my second semester working in the bakery. I suppose I could be considered a veteran baker, but there is still always something new to learn. Baking is like building a Lego masterpiece, starting with a small amount of ingredients that all add up to a tasty and fantastic looking bread. They both have the same great satisfaction. Growing up, I always loved to make things, whether it was in the kitchen, making food or making a fort in the backyard. In high school, I took a cooking class and it was certainly one of my favorites. When I got to Hiram, I had no idea what freshman colloquium and freshman seminar to take. I then saw one about baking bread and knew that was the one I wanted to do. I am now in my second semester as part of the Terrier Bakery and loving every minute in the kitchen with my classmates and teacher.
This week is St. Patrick’s Day and with that comes Irish Soda Bread. Irish Soda Bread originated in Ireland back in the 1800’s and is considered a quick bread, so it is fairly easy process to make. It does not require yeast, as the basic ingredients include flour, baking soda, salt and buttermilk. The Irish used to cook it in a big cast-iron pot with a lid right over hot coals. The bread should be a dense bread with a crunchy crust and is complimented nicely with warm butter. Make sure to grab one this week at the Terrier Bakery, as you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day!