Irish Soda Bread

Holiday/Special Occasions

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon nutmeg

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

6 tablespoons solid shortening

¾ cup brown and/or golden raisins

1 cup buttermilk, more or less

Preheat oven to 375-degrees. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg and sugar. Using a pastry blender cut the shortening into the flour until it is the consistency of small peas. Stir in raisins and evenly distribute. Gradually stir in buttermilk using only enough for the dough to some together. Knead the dough for 3 to 4 minutes. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Cut a large “X” on top of the loaf. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

Yield: 1 round loaf.

Carolyn Gass Hardimon M. S. Home Economist www.recipeladies.com

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