Freshly baked cheddar and herb soda bread served warm straight from the hearth of a cozy hobbit hole is the perfect winter treat.
Winter in Middle Earth
With the cold days and long nights of winter coming upon us, let us imagine the hearty and rustic fare that would warm tables across JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. As the nights lengthen and the days grow dark, we can wonder at what foods would be served in the great halls of the Dwarven kings or at the lavish feast tables of the Elven kingdoms. What delicacies would be served by the hobbits, snug in their cozy hobbit holes as the winds of winter howl across the land? Let us explore together some of the culinary delights from different lands for a Winter Feast in Middle Earth.
The Shire
Chase away the chills of winter with a warm slice of homemade bread straight from the hearth of a cozy hobbit hole in the Shire. Made without yeast or the need to rise, soda bread is a quick and easy way to get a slice of homemade bread to the table. Sharp cheddar cheese and a blend of fresh herbs add a savoury flavour to this rustic loaf. This cheddar and herb soda bread is perfect for dipping into a hearty soup for a cozy and comforting winter meal.
Ingredients
Cheddar: Cheddar is my preferred cheese for this recipe, although you can certainly substitute with another kind of cheese as you prefer.
Herbs: I like using a blend of fresh herbs, although you can use whatever variety you prefer. If using dried, reduce the total amount to 1 tsp dried for 1 tbsp of fresh herbs.
Buttermilk: The chemical reaction between the acid in buttermilk and the baking soda is what gives this quick and easy bread its lift. You can make a substitute for buttermilk by adding an acid to milk. Add 2 tsp lemon juice or vinegar to 1 3/4 cups milk and let sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using.
How to make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Make the bread dough
Preheat the oven to 425°. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir together. Add the chopped fresh herbs along with the shredded cheese. Stir the herbs and cheese into the flour mixture. Add the buttermilk and stir until combined.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter. Bring the dough together and knead just a couple of times to make a smooth ball. Do not over knead the dough. Shape into a ball and pat out into a 7 inch circle.
Bake the soda bread
Lightly flour a baking sheet. Transfer the dough to the baking sheet and dust the top with more flour. Use a sharp knife to score a cross into the top of the dough, cutting about 1/2 inch deep. Bake the bread for 15 minutes and then reduce the heat to 375°. Continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes until fully baked. The bread will sound hollow when knocked on the bottom.
Serve the Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
After baking, wrap the soda bread in a tea towel to cool. The steam will help to soften the outside crust of the bread. Enjoy!
