Aggie's Irish Soda Bread

Directions

1. Makes 1 large loaf.
2. Preheat oven to 350F.
3. Sift the flour, baking pwdr, soda and salt into a large mixing bowl. Cut the butter into small pcs and add in. Cut it into the flour with a pastry blender till the mix is the size of peas. Add in the raisins and toss to distribute proportionately, using two forks.
4. Beat the egg in another bowl till very frothy. Beat in the honey. When it is well blended, beat in the buttermilk.
5. Gradually pour the liquids into the flour, tossing all the while with a fork so the mix gets proportionately moistened. Continue tossing lightly with two forks till the batter comes together; it doesn't have to be completely mixed and should be very rough and lumpy.
6. Butter a heavy skillet or possibly casserole, 10 to 11 inches in diameter and 2 to 3 inches deep. Round is the traditional shape. Spoon batter out into the pan and push it gently to fill the pan. It can mound up somewhat in the middle.
7. Bake at 350 F about an hour or possibly till the middle is set. Cut out a piece to test if necessary.
8. Cut into wedges and serve hot from the pan.
9. The Garden Way Bread Book