I've tested other soda bread recipes on AllRecipes, but I keep coming back to this one -- simple and perfect. It's a nice base for experimentation, too; I've tried it with currants and with rosemary, and it never fails to please. I do suggest, though, that you seek out *real* buttermilk (not that low-fat nonsense) if it's available in your area. You'll taste the difference, if you can keep your guests from scarfing the loaves up before you get a decent bite!

Reviewed On: Mar. 31, 2010

On its own, a bit bland, but one heck of a base for a hearty winter soup: I added butter, curry powder, sesame and wasabi oil to the saute; put the herbs in at the bottom of the slow cooker, with cinnampon sticks at the sides and bay leaves layered in; kicked up the bay a bit, and set it for 12 hours on low. When done, used a bit of the broth to saute some nice langoustines (any subtle-flavored fish would have done), added langs to bottom of serving bowl, poured soup over, drizzled with heavy cream. A smash hit at our house.

Reviewed On: Dec. 18, 2005

I try a new cranberry-sauce recipe every holiday, and this one has gotten far and away the best reception. Unlike the other reviewers I *increased* the zest and was pleased with the results. (Expect to cook it down a bit longer than indicated, though.) If you manage to have any left after the meal, you'll find it's also wonderful on vanilla ice cream. A winner!

Reviewed On: Dec. 30, 2001