Joy of Cooking Irish Soda Bread

Preheat to 375. (NB: 350 might be enough)

Sift together

2c sifted flour

   3/4 t baking soda

   1/2 t salt

   1T sugar

Cut in 

   6 T chilled shortening

to consistency of coarse cornmeal.  Hint: do this in a cuisinart!

Stir in 

   1/2-1c raisins or currants

   1T caraway seeds

Add 

   1/2-2/3 c buttermilk (up to 3/4c)

Knead briefly, shape, cut in a cross, lay on cookie sheet. (NB: a shiny pan is better than a black one, which may cause burning on the bottom)

Brush top with a little milk.

Bake 40-50 minutes.