Irish Soda Bread

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter a 10-inch cast iron skillet or similar baking dish.

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and sugar.

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.

Pour the liquid into the flour mixture. Use a rubber spatula to mix until you have a shaggy dough.

If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little flour on your hands and shape it into a round ball.

Transfer the dough ball to the prepared skillet. Use a knife to score an X on top of the loaf.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the loaf is golden. To test doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf — it should sound hollow.

Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing.