Cheddar and Spring Onion Soda Bread

Shopping list

• 450 g plain flour — plus extra for dusting

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• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

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• 1 tsp salt

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• 400 ml buttermilk — at room temperature

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• 120 g mature Cheddar cheese — grated

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• 4 piece spring onions — finely sliced

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• 0.5 tsp black pepper — freshly ground

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Step by step

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking parchment.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, salt and black pepper.

3. 3

   Stir in the grated Cheddar and sliced spring onions until evenly distributed.

4. 4

   Make a well in the centre and pour in the buttermilk. Use a wooden spoon to bring the mixture together into a soft, sticky dough.

5. 5

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and shape gently into a round about 4 cm thick. Avoid over-kneading.

6. 6

   Place the round on the prepared tray and use a sharp knife to score a deep cross on top.

7. 7

   Bake for 30– 35 minutes until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the base and is golden brown.

8. 8

   Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.