St. Patrick's Day (03/17/10)

Traditional Irish Soda Bread

Makes 1 loaf

INGREDIENTS

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 1/4 cups buttermilk or soured milk

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt and baking soda together. Add buttermilk and mix well with a large spoon or your hands, if necessary.

3. Shape into a ball and place on the baking sheet. With a very sharp knife, make an “x” in the top of the loaf. Bake until golden brown, about 45 minutes.