Irish Soda Bread

Recently, I saw a simple and easy bread recipe in Alex Goh's World of Bread recipe book. If you have been reading my posts, you should know by now that I could not resist recipes that are said to be simple and easy.

The Irish Soda Bread recipe here does not use any yeast nor does it require any proofing. In fact, there is hardly any kneading (the hardest step in bread-making without the bread machine, in my opinion) required as the recipe advises against over-mixing the dough. It is almost like an instant bread. I followed the recipe and the only alteration I made was to add whole-wheat bran to it as an effort to make it even healthier (it is also low-fat and low-sugar too).
The bread has a thick and tough crust, just like how European breads usually are. I am surprised to discover that it has a very addictive yummy scent given its simple ingredients. Although the crust is thick, the center is considerably chewy and soft. I am satisfied with just eating it plain. Of course, it is also good with stews.