NANA KATHLEEN'S IRISH WHITE SODA FRUIT BREAD

Steps:

• 1. Preheat your oven to 425F
• 2. In a large bowl, sieve the flour and bread soda together (make sure you sieve the breadsoda before you sieve it with the flour)
• 3. Add salt, sugar and raisins. mix the ingredients together lifting them above the bowl and letting them fall loosely back into the bowl. Always use your hands and never a mixer.
• 4. Make a well in the centre of the flour. Break the egg into the bottom of a jug and add buttermilk. Pour most of this liquid into the flour. Using your hand with fingers open and stiff mix in a circle drawing in the flour from the sides. Add remainder of buttermilk if necessary. Dough should be soft not too wet
• 5. Mix as quickly as possible to keep dough light and airy, NEVER over mix. When the dough comes together turn it on to to a well floured centre. roll lightly for a few seconds,pat into a round about 2in high
• 6. Place dough on a baking tray dusted with flour. Cut a deep cross in it and prick the four triangles with your knife (to let the fairies out). Put in oven for 15-20 mins then reduce temp to 400f for a further 20-25 mins. when the bread is cooked it will sound hollow when tapped cool on a wire rack
• 7. cut a slice and smother with butter to have with a cup of tea