St Patrick's day has a special meaning for me as my gorgeous niece was born on this day 2 years ago. She's such a lovely little girl and she brings delight to everyone who meets her.
1 teaspoon caster sugar
1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
1 teaspoon salt
200ml buttermilk
75ml milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
You will also need a solid baking tray.
Preheat the oven to 220c/425f/Gas mark 7.
Sift all the dry ingredients into a large bowl, combine and make a well in the centre.
Mix the buttermilk, milk and lemon juice in a jug.
Pour the wet ingredients into the flour, and mix together using a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough starts to come together.
Lightly dust the work surface with a little plain flour and tip the dough out of the bowl and lightly knead, roll the dough into a small disc, then shape into a round loaf, do not overwork the dough as this will result in tough bread.
Place the loaf on the baking tray and using a knife score a cross in the top.
Reduce the oven temperature to 200c/400f/Gas mark 6 and bake the soda bread on the middle shelf for about 20-22 minutes until the loaf is well-risen, golden and will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
