A Quick Bread with Deep Roots

Soda bread was born out of necessity: simple ingredients, no yeast, no wait. Just mix, shape, and bake. In healing kitchens, where grains and dairy are often off the table, this loaf channels the same spirit—fast, forgiving, and deeply satisfying.

With mashed white potatoes as the base and a touch of lemon juice for lift, the texture is dense but soft—perfect with soup or toasted with herbs. Add chives, parsley, or sea salt for brightness, and if tolerated, a tiny pinch of baking soda for extra rise and tang.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups mashed white potato (cooled and moisture-balanced)
• ⅔ cup cassava flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (or celery juice)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (or scallions)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp baking soda (optional, only if tolerated)
• ¼ cup filtered water, as needed for dough consistency

Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix mashed potato, cassava flour, lemon juice, herbs, and salt. Add baking soda if using.
3. Stir in water gradually until a firm but shapeable dough forms.
4. Shape into a rustic round loaf or flatten slightly for a biscuit-style bake.
5. Use a knife to score a cross on top—classic soda bread style.
6. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch.
7. Let cool completely before slicing. It firms up as it rests.

To Serve

• With herbal vegetable soup or broth
• Sliced and lightly toasted, then rubbed with garlic and topped with herbs
• Alongside a tomato and squash purée for dipping

Notes from the Kitchen

• Texture depends on potato moisture: drain well, then mash.
• Optional baking soda adds tang and loft, but is not required for success.
• Store at room temperature in a wrapped towel for 2 days, or refrigerate and re-toast.

This quick loaf has that classic soda bread soul—humble, quick to make, and full of character—with none of the ingredients that weigh you down. Just a warm slice, a bowl of something healing, and you’re set.