Rustic Walnut Fig Soda Bread

I love to make soda bread. It comes together so quickly and easy, and tastes so good. This version with walnuts and figs is no exception. With every bite you get that distinctive taste of the figs and the crunchiness of the walnuts. So yummy!

1-1/2cups all-purpose flour, (approx)

1-1/2 cups whole wheat flour

3/4 cup chopped walnut halves

1/4 cup diced dried fig

1 tbsp baking powder

2 tsp granulated sugar

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

2 cups buttermilk

 

Grease 9- x 5-inch (2 L) loaf pan; set aside.
In large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, walnuts, figs, baking powder, sugar, baking soda and salt. Make well in centre; pour in buttermilk and stir to form sticky ball. Scrape into prepared pan; pushing dough into corners.

With sharp knife, cut shallow slit lengthwise through centre of loaf. Dust with 1 tbsp (15 mL) more all-purpose flour. Bake in centre of 400°F (200°C) oven until golden and cake tester inserted in centre comes out clean, 55 minutes. Remove from pan; let cool on rack. (Make-ahead: Wrap in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days or overwrap in heavy-duty foil and freeze for up to 1 month.)

Spreads
Honey Butter: In small bowl and using fork, mash 1/3 cup (75 mL) butter, softened, with 2 tbsp (25 mL) liquid honey until smooth. (Make-ahead: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 1 week; let come to room temperature to use.) Makes about 1/2 cup (125 mL).

Recipe courtesy of 'Canadian Living Magazine'  http://www.canadianliving.com/food/walnut_fig_soda_bread.php