Mmmm, fresh bread. Nothing is better than the smell of a fresh loaf of bread. If you're looking for a bread that is both delicious and healthy, look no further. This Irish Kelp Bread recipe is a perfect choice. Made with only six key ingredients, including organic Maine seaweed farmed off the coast, this bread is packed with flavor and nutrients that make it a great addition to any meal, or a snack all on its own. 

Before we dive into the recipe, we will explore the benefits of seaweed breads and why they are becoming a popular choice for people who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional bread.

Health Benefits of Irish Kelp Bread

One of the key ingredients in traditional Irish Kelp Bread is Irish seaweed, known for its high levels of iodine, iron, as well as a host of other vitamins and essential minerals. Also known as a superfood, seaweeds make for a great food or ingredient that help maintain a healthy thyroid, boost energy levels, and improve overall health. More than that, kelps are an incredible source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help protect the body against diseases and other health problems. While we don’t include Irish seaweed in this recipe, we do include our Maine organic seaweeds which contain the same health benefits. Different seaweeds can be used depending on where you live. 

Another great thing about Irish Kelp Bread is that it is high in fiber and protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time. This makes it a great choice for people who are looking to maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of chronic diseases like obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Tasty and Versatile

One of the best things about Irish Kelp Bread is that it is versatile. With its unique blend of flavors, it can be used in a variety of ways, from toasting it for breakfast to using it as a base for sandwiches and other lunchtime favorites. You can even use it as a healthy alternative to crackers or bread crumbs in your favorite recipes.

We liked to use our bread for homemade kelp french toast, or toasted with some butter and jam. The bread itself is slightly sweet & salty due to the sugar and Sugar Kelp we added. You could add a mixture of Sugar Kelp & Alaria if you wished, or just Alaria for a more nutty flavor instead of the salty notes. This would also taste amazing with added raisins or small bits of dried fruit. 

In conclusion, Irish Kelp Bread is a delicious and nutritious food that is ideal for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional homemade bread. With its high levels of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber and protein, it's a great food for the entire family that is sure to help maintain healthy weights and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. 

Enjoy. 

 

Prep Time: 10 mins

Makes: 1 loaf, or 8-10 pieces of sliced bread

You'll Need: 

3 ½ cups of all purpose flour or bread flour

1 ¾ cups of milk kefir or buttermilk 

1 tbsp of granulated sugar 

1 tsp of baking soda

1 tsp of salt 

2-4 tbsp of Organic Sugar Kelp Flakes and/or Organic Alaria Flakes 

 

Directions: 

First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 

Add all of the flour to a large mixing bowl. Then, add the baking soda, salt and sugar, and mix until all ingredients are blended well. 

Add in milk kefir or buttermilk and begin to stir. Add a tablespoon of milk kefir, buttermilk or a bit of water at a time if the dough is too dry. If too sticky, add a bit more flour. Keep stirring until the dough is too stiff to stir and begin to knead with your hands. 

As the dough begins to form, add Organic Sugar Kelp Flakes and keep kneading dough for several minutes until all ingredients are incorporated together and dough is stiff. 

Transfer dough to a cast iron pan, a greased bread pan, or a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Place into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Take out, let sit for a few minutes to cool before slicing.