It's not a holiday in my book without Irish soda bread. This side dish has become a staple at every one of our family holiday dinners.  While the slightly sweet bread might not be a classic Christmas side, it is a mighty tasty addition. So enjoy this family recipe that has been passed down through the generations.

Ingredients

5 cups sifted flour                              

1 egg, slightly beaten

1 1/2 teaspoons salt                           

1 stick of butter

1 cup sugar                                          

2 1/2 cups white raisins

1 tablespoon baking powder            

2 1/2 cups buttermilk

1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

Sift flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda together. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two knives until mixture resembles course cornmeal. Stir in raisins and add buttermilk and egg to the dry mixture. Mix only until the flour is moistened.

Generously butter a heavy cast iron skillet or two loaf pans. Pour batter into the pans and bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours until firm and golden brown. Let cool slightly before eating.

Makes one large skillet, or two loaves.