Irish bannock is a traditional Irish bread, or cake, that is ideal with tea or coffee and lashings of butter. The salty sweet texture is not that far off from scones. Although eaten daily, this is one of the emblematic breads of St. Patrick's Day which can be greatly enjoyed not only around this time of year but anytime you wish.
Irish Bannock
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 cups unbleached all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 tablespoon sugar
3/4 cup raisins
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Lightly grease and flour a round 8 inch cake tin and line the bottom with baking parchment paper.
In a large bowl combine the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar and sugar. Whisk together well, then add the raisins and stir to combine.
Create a well in the centre of the flour mixture and pour the buttermilk into the well and stir until a slightly sticky soft dough forms. Scrape the dough into the prepared cake tin and spread roughly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until risen and lightly brown.