BHA & BHT Free Soda Bread with Caraway

There is something deeply satisfying about a loaf of bread that comes together with no yeast, no proofing, and no preservatives — just pantry staples and a hot oven. The caraway seeds are the real star here, lending a warm, slightly anise-like flavor that makes every slice taste far more complex than the short ingredient list would suggest. Cold buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to give the loaf its lift, creating a tender, open crumb beneath that deep golden crust. Packaged breads are notorious for sneaking in synthetic preservatives like BHA and BHT to extend shelf life, but when you bake from scratch with flour, salt, buttermilk, and seeds, you know exactly what went into the dough. The technique is forgiving — the key is a light hand when mixing so the dough stays soft and the crumb stays airy rather than tough. That dramatic X scored across the top isn't just for looks; it helps the center bake through evenly and gives the crust those gorgeous crackled edges. Brushed with a little melted butter straight out of the oven, this loaf is the kind of thing you'll want to tear into before it even fully cools.

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