–Ah, Germany, land of a thousand breads, most of them delicious. And yet, for all the infinite variety of deutsches Brot, there’s nothing quite like this stuff, and that’s why we’re so excited to bring it to you. We have had so many requests for this one, and we’re delighted that we’re finally able to offer it.. Ladies and gentlemen, McCambridge’s Bread!
McCambridge’s Original Wholewheat Irish Soda Bread is a traditional and beloved Irish staple, known at home and around the world for its wholesome ingredients and unique baking process. This bread is a quintessential example of Irish culinary heritage, offering a taste of the country’s rich agricultural and baking traditions. There’s nothing quite like it anywhere else, and that’s why we’re bringing you the real thing, all the way from Ireland.
What is soda bread?
Soda bread is the quintessential Irish bread. It became popular in the 19th century when bicarbonate of soda was introduced to Ireland. Prior to this, most people in Ireland ate flat bread, as the varieties of wheat grown in Ireland were low in gluten, and thus did not rise effectively when baked with wheat. The arrival of baking soda changed everything – finally, Irish people could enjoy leavened bread. Soda bread quickly became a household staple due to its simple preparation and the availability of ingredients.
McCambridge’s is a brand well known and loved in Ireland, and they have been producing their original wholewheat soda bread since 1945, maintaining traditional methods and recipes that have been passed down through generations.
McCambridge’s Original Wholewheat Irish Soda Bread is a dense, hearty loaf made primarily from stoneground wholemeal flour, which gives it a robust texture and rich, nutty flavor. Unlike yeast breads, soda bread uses baking soda as its leavening agent, which is where it gets its name. This method not only simplifies the baking process but also imparts a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other breads. It’s made with just a few simple, natural ingredients – wholemeal flour, wheat bran, baking soda, buttermilk, and a pinch of salt. The absence of artificial additives and preservatives ensures a pure, wholesome product. And the great thing about this wholemeal soda bread is that it is extremely rich in dietary fibre compared to most other kinds of bread.
How is soda bread made?
Of course McCambridge’s aren’t giving away all their secrets, but we can give you a general idea!
The preparation of soda bread is quite straighforward. The dry ingredients are mixed together, and then buttermilk is added to form a dough. This dough is shaped into loaf shape. The loaf is then baked in an oven until it develops a golden-brown crust and a firm, yet tender crumb.
If you’d like to have a go at baking it yourself, can we recommend Odlums Irish Brown Soda Bread Mix?
What does soda bread taste like?
The flavour of McCambridge’s Original Wholewheat Irish Soda Bread is earthy and slightly tangy, thanks to the wholemeal flour and buttermilk. Its dense texture makes it hearty and satisfying, ideal for pairing with both sweet and savoury toppings. We’re very partial to eating it with a little Irish salmon, or dipping it in a nice warm bowl of Irish stew, but lots of people enjoy it simply with butter or jam.
What else do I need to know?
McCambridge’s bread products are baked in Ireland and arrive at our facilities in Berlin frozen. Your purchase will be taken from our deep freeze immediately before we pack your order, so that it reaches you in the best possible condition.
Please keep in mind, however, that this is fresh bread, baked without preservatives, and thus its shelf life is quite short. Your order should get to you within 48 hours of going out, so your bread should last a few days longer, but this is not a long-life product.
If you want to refreeze it to enjoy at a later date, you may do so.