Ulster Herb Loaf

The Ulster Herb Loaf is a traditional Irish bread imbued with the rich flavors of fresh herbs, reflecting the lush and natural bounty of Ireland's landscapes. This unique variety of bread has its origins in the northern province of Ulster in Ireland, where fresh ingredients and hearty meals are a way of life. Historically, bread has been a staple in Irish households, and the Ulster Herb Loaf is a testament to the traditional Irish baking techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500g
• Baking Powder - 2 tsp
• Sugar - 1 tbsp
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Butter - 100g, chilled and diced
• Buttermilk - 300ml
• Fresh Thyme - 1 tbsp, chopped
• Fresh Rosemary - 1 tbsp, chopped
• Fresh Oregano - 1 tbsp, chopped

Preparation Instructions

Before beginning the Ulster Herb Loaf, gather all your ingredients and preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Ensure that you have a clean, flat surface for mixing and kneading the dough.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Make sure the mixture is well combined to ensure even distribution of the raising agents.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Add the chilled and diced butter into the dry ingredients. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Stir in Fresh Herbs

Add the chopped fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and fresh oregano into the dry mixture and mix until the herbs are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add Buttermilk

Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. Avoid over-kneading as this can make the bread tough.

Cooking Process

Step 6: Shape the Loaf

Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross into the top of the loaf, about 1 cm deep. This allows heat to penetrate into the center of the loaf.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf in the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped at the base. Use a clean cooking timer to keep track of the baking time.

Step 8: Cool the Bread

Remove the loaf from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool. Resist the temptation to cut into it immediately as cooling allows the bread to firm up and become easier to slice.

Enjoying Your Ulster Herb Loaf

The Ulster Herb Loaf is best enjoyed fresh, with a slab of butter or dipped in a hearty soup or stew. Its rich herb flavor pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Consider serving it with cheese and chutney for a traditional Irish ploughman’s lunch, or toasted with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for a delicious breakfast.

This traditional bread captures the essence of Irish culinary heritage, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you are enjoying it as a side or on its own, the Ulster Herb Loaf offers a slice of comfort and taste that is quintessentially Irish.