Real Irish Soda Bread - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 lb bread flour (white)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 pinch salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 ounce margarine
1/2 pint buttermilk (might need more)

Preparation

Sieve flour, salt and soda into a bowl. Add sugar if used.
Rub in the margarine to resemble breadcrumbs, lifting mixture with fingertips to introduce air to the dough.
Add sufficient buttermilk and mix to make a soft dough.
Turn onto a lightly floured board and knead a little.
Turn the smooth side up and shape into a round. Place the dough on a floured tin.
Cut a cross over the top.
Bake in a pre-heated oven, 400\u00b0F 200\u00b0C Gas 6 for 40-45 minutes.
When baked the underneath when \"tapped\" should have a hollow sound.
Cool on a wire tray. Cover with a tea towel to give a soft crust.