CHEF JEFF — ONE BYTE AT A TIME: Vegan Irish Soda Bread

This gluten-free loaf is quick and easy to make, and a slice or two makes a lovely breakfast or snack.

Vegan Irish Soda Bread

2 cups gluten free flour

¾ cup oatmeal

3 tablespoons ground flax seed (flax seed meal)

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons cinnamon

3 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon xanthan gum

5 tablespoons vegan margarine (such as Earth Balance)

1 cup unsweetened soy milk

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1/3 cup raisins

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Lightly oil 9-inch loaf pan. In large bowl, mix flour, oatmeal, flax seed, baking soda, cinnamon, xanthan gum. Add margarine, working in gently, until mixture forms crumbs. In small bowl, combine soy milk , cider vinegar. (Mixture will curdle.) Stir into dry ingredients to form thick, pourable batter. Stir in raisins. Pour into prepared pan. Bake 30 minutes, until top is golden brown, crusty. Cool before slicing.

Yield: 10 slices.

Grab more food tidbits at the Chef Jeff blog at GrandForksHerald.com.