Irish Wholemeal Soda Farls with Oats

Shopping list

• 200 g wholemeal flour

  Sub
• 50 g rolled oats — plus extra for dusting

  Sub
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

  Sub
• 200 ml buttermilk

  Sub
• 0.5 tsp salt

  Sub

Step by step

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the wholemeal flour, oats, bicarbonate of soda and salt.

2. 2

   Make a well in the centre and pour in the buttermilk. Stir with a wooden spoon until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

3. 3

   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead very gently for no more than 30 seconds—overworking will toughen the bread.

4. 4

   Pat the dough into a round about 2 cm thick. Cut into quarters to make four farls.

5. 5

   Heat a dry, heavy-based frying pan or cast-iron griddle over medium-low heat.

6. 6

   Dust each farl lightly with extra oats and place in the pan. Cook for 5– 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through—tap the base; it should sound hollow.

7. 7

   Transfer to a wire rack and cover with a clean tea towel to keep soft. Serve warm or at room temperature.