Preheat oven to 425F. Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper or silicon mat.

Sift together the flour, salt and baking soda into a mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and pour in most of the buttermilk OR the homemade version of milk with lemon juice. Mix together well using your hands. The dough should be soft but not too wet. If needed, add more buttermilk to get the dough to come together.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it lightly. Shape into an 8-inch circle. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and cut a cross into the top with a sharp knife. An optional last step is to poke a hole in each section to let the fairies escape!

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature should be at least 195F. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool slightly. Serve warm if possible. Best if eaten the day it is made.