Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silpat baking mat.
Add the flours, the baking soda and the salt to a large bowl and whisk to combine.
Add the buttermilk and mix using a large wooden spoon or spatula.
Add a few tablespoons of flour to your work surface and turn out the bread dough.
Knead the dough about 8 times. It will be slightly sticky.
Shape it into a round and place it onto your prepared baking sheet.
Cut a large deep cross over the top of the bread. Cut all the way through the through the dough. This step allows steam to escape dutring the cooking process.
Bake the loaf for 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
Reduce the temperature to 350°F (180°C). Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Check for doneness: The internal temperature of the bread should be about 200°F (93°C).
Remove the soda bread from the oven and let it cool completely (about 30 minutes) before serving.
RECIPE TIPS
Flour selection. Soda bread is traditionally made with soft wheat flour. Soft wheat flour is low in gluten protein and produces a very tender crumb. I chose to use cake flour and pastry flour in this recipe. All-purpose flour is also fine to use in the recipe. Wholemeal flour adds flavor and texture to this hearty bread. You can adjust the amount to your taste. Just make sure to keep the total amount of flour equal to 2 ¾ cups.