Whip up a delightful Spinach and Feta Soda Bread, a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy bread recipes. This quick, no-yeast bread offers a savory twist that’s perfect for any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- All-Purpose Flour: You can use whole wheat pastry flour for a denser crumb.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar; let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fresh Spinach: Frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry, works well too.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta alternative can be used.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210
- Tools needed: Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your healthy bread recipes turn out perfectly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined for even distribution.
3. Add Spinach and Feta
Stir the finely chopped fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese into the dry ingredients. Distribute them evenly throughout the flour mixture.
4. Mix in Buttermilk
Pour the buttermilk into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make your bread tough.
5. Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together, then shape it into a round loaf, about 1 ½ inches thick.
6. Score and Bake
Place the dough on your prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep ‘X’ into the top of the loaf. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Once baked, transfer the Spinach and Feta Soda Bread to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm slices for the best flavor. This healthy bread recipe is best enjoyed fresh.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Include chopped fresh dill or chives for an herby flavor.
- Mix in ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped) for extra tang.
- Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds before baking for added texture.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Spinach and Feta Soda Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat slices in a toaster or oven until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the dry ingredients and store them, but for best results, mix in the buttermilk and bake immediately.
Why is my soda bread dense?
Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten too much, leading to a dense texture. Mix just until combined.
Can I use plain milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but you’ll need to “sour” it first. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 ½ cups of plain milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I know when the bread is fully cooked?
The bread should be golden brown, and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Is this bread suitable for sandwiches?
Absolutely! Its savory flavor pairs wonderfully with various fillings, making it a great option for healthy bread recipes.
What can I serve with this soda bread?
It’s excellent with soups, stews, salads, or as a side with eggs.
