Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon (6g) baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
  • 1 ¾ cups (420ml) buttermilk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C, Gas Mark 6). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps.
  3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the buttermilk.
  4. Gently mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands until just combined. Do not overmix! The dough should be shaggy and slightly sticky.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round, about 1 ½ - 2 inches thick.
  6. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife or lame to cut a deep cross (about 1 inch deep) into the top of the loaf.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing and serving.