Irish Soda Bread - Soda Bread

1. 1

   If the raisins are hard and dry, refresh them by placing a saucepan and covering with cold water.

2. 2

   Bring to a boil, remove from heat, and let stand for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Drain well, spread on a paper, and pat dry.

4. 4

   Cut the butter into the flour as you would for pastry.

5. 5

   Mix the baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar together thoroughly and add the raisins.

6. 6

   Add to the flour mixture, combining thoroughtly.

7. 7

   Beat the egg slightly and add to 1 cup (225 ml) of buttermilk.

8. 8

   Pour over the dry ingredients, stirring in enough of the remaining milk to form a dough.

9. 9

   Turn onto a floured board and knead for a couple of minutes.

10. 10

    Form a flattened ball and place in a greased iron frying pan.

11. 11

    With a sharp knife, cut a deep cross on top, right to the edges.

12. 12

    Bake in a 375 degrees (200 C.) oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

13. 13

    Remove from oven and immediately turn out of pan onto a wire rack to cool.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.