*  Exported from  MasterCook  *

                  SAINT PATRICK'S DAY IRISH SODA BREAD

Recipe By     :
Serving Size  : 2    Preparation Time :0:00
Categories    : Breads

 Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
  4       c            Unbleached flour
  1       t            Salt
  1       tb           Baking powder
  1       t            Baking soda
    1/4   c            Sugar
    1/8   ts           Cardamom
    1/4   c            Butter
  1                    Egg, at room temperature
  1 3/4   c            Buttermilk, at room
                       -temperature
  1 1/2   c            Currants

 Cut this crusty bread in wedges to serve.  Add two
 teaspoons grate lemon peel to complement the flavor of
 the currants.

 In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients.
 Cut in the butter with a pastry blender or work it in
 with your finger.  Mix the egg and buttermilk together
 and then add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir
 until well blended.  Add the currants and stir the
 mixture well. Turn out on a floured surface and knead
 gently for 3 minutes or until the dough is smooth.
 Divide the dough into two pieces, shaping each into a
 round loaf.

 Place each in a greased 8 inch cake or pie
 pan,pressing it down until the dough fills the pan.
 Use a sharp knife to cut a 1/2 inch deep cross on top
 of each loaf.  Bake in a preheated 375 F oven for
 about 40 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when
 you thump it.  Turn out on a wire rack to cool.  Do
 not cut for about 4 hours. Makes 2 loaves.

 Origin: Hearth and Home Companion Shared by: Sharon
 Stevens



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