MMMmonday - Irish Soda Bread

With St. Patrick's Day this week, I thought I'd share a quick and easy Irish Soda Bread recipe with you ... it makes a great addition to Corned Beef and Cabbage or any stew or soup!  I got this recipe from one of my favorite sources - The Chef @ WWRecipes

Irish Soda Bread

2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 Tbs. sugar
1-1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
4 Tbs. butter (room temperature)
1 egg
1 1/4 cups buttermilk (room temperature)

1. Mix together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Using your finger tips, work the butter into the flour mixture until the mixture resembles bread crumbs. 
2. Beat the egg and buttermilk in a separate bowl, and gradually add to the flour mixture. Mix with a spoon at first, and then by hand or mixer when the dough becomes stiff. 
3. On a lightly floured work surface, work the dough to thoroughly blend all the ingredients. Do not knead. Sprinkle with flour if the dough should stick. 
4. Shape into a round ball and pat the top down slightly, and place on a greased or non-stick baking sheet. Cut a 1/2-inch (1 cm) deep cross in the top using a sharp knife or razor blade. 
5. Bake in 400F (200C) oven for about 45 minutes, or until it has browned and the cuts have expanded. 
6. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing. Makes 1 loaf.

It doesn't have to be Irish or Green, but if you have a yummy recipe on your blog, please link it up here and share it!