*  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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