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One of the most well-known Irish foods is soda bread. Served warm out of the oven or lightly toasted, this is one of the most comforting and tasty breads you can eat. Traditionally, soda bread is baked over a peat fire in a bastible pot, which allows it to be covered at least part of the time while baking. It is also one of the very easiest types of bread to make, making it a good choice for a beginning baker. To get you started, here are a few tips:

1) Make sure you have all the ingredients lined up before you begin.

2) Sift the dry ingredients together several times to ensure that the soda is well distributed.

3) Do not over-handle the dough.

4) Make a well in the dry ingredients, and quickly blend in the wet ingredients. Immediately turn the dough out onto a lightly floured board and knead for 1 minute.

5) Shape the dough into a domed circle, then slice an X into the top; this will help the bread to flower properly.