True Irish soda bread is plain, add currants or raisins, the bread becomes 'spotted dog'. This version is a variant, a truly traditional Irish bread is made with only four ingredients: flour, baking soda, sour milk (buttermilk) and salt.

Irish Soda Bread

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons butter, cold

2 cups buttermilk

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In mixing bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt, mixing well. With a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour mixture, until crumbly. Add the buttermilk, stir with a fork just enough to moisten. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead 8 to 10 times.
3. Place in a greased round casserole baking dish, or shape the loaf on a baking sheet. Cut a cross on the top of the loaf with a very sharp floured knife.
4. Bake for 1 hour, or until browned and a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Makes 1 loaf.

Variation: Add 1 cup currants or raisins with the buttermilk.