Here is a deliciously simple bread recipe. Soda bread requires virtually no kneading and no proving, is yeast-free and quick to prepare.

Makes 1 loaf.

Ingredients.

1. 350 grams wholemeal flour

2. 110 grams plain white flour

3. 1 teaspoon salt

4. 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

5. 1 teaspoon sugar

6. 300ml buttermilk (if unable to get buttermilk, use half natural yoghurt and half fresh milk mixed together.)

Method.

1. Pre-heat the oven to 200C/400F/gas 6.

2. In a large bowl, mix the 2 flours, salt, bicarbonate of soda and sugar.

3. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients, pour in the buttermilk and stir with a knife and then your hands to bring the mixture to a soft dough. Add a little fresh milk if you need to.

4. Gently knead the dough on a floured surface for only a minute until you reach a smooth dough.

5. Form into approximately 18 centimetre round loaf and place on a greased baking sheet. If you can, score a cross with a knife halfway through the dough to form 4 sections.

6. Bake for 30 minutes and when tapped on its bottom it sounds hollow. Cool slightly and serve warm with butter, cheese or soup.