Irish Spotted Dog - Traditional Irish Fruit Bread

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Irish Spotted Dog - Traditional Irish Fruit Bread

 

4 C plain white flour

2 teaspoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 C raisins, currants or sultanas

1 1/2 C milk or buttermilk

1 egg (optional, you will not need all the milk if you use the egg)

 

 

 

 

1. Sift the dry ingredients, add the fruit and mix well.

2. Make a well in the center and add the egg if you are using it, and most of

the milk. Using one hand, mix in the flour from the sides of the bowl, adding

more milk if necessary. The dough should be softish but not too wet and sticky.

When it all comes together, turn it out onto a floured board and knead lightly

for a few seconds - just long to tidy it up.

3. Pat the dough into a round about 1 1/2 inches deep and cut a deep cross in it

(to let the faeries out!). Let the cuts go over the sides of the bread.

4. Bake in a preheated 450 degree F oven for 15 minutes, then turn the oven down

to 400 degrees F and bake for another 30 minutes or until cooked. If you are in

doubt, tap the bottom: it will sound hollow when cooked.

5. Serve freshly baked, cut into thick slices and spread with butter.

 

Author: " Festive Food of Ireland " by Chef Darina Allen, Ballmaloe Castle

Formatted by Chupa Babi: 03.12.08

 

This is the traditional Irish fruit bread, also called Sweet Cake, Curnie Cake,

Spotted Dick or Railway Cake depending on the area.

 

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