Spotted Dog

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 C raisins, currants, or sultanas
1 1/2 C buttermilk

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Mix together the dry ingredients and the fruit.

2. Add the buttermilk and mix with a wooden spoon, just until blended. Put on a plastic or floured board and knead until smooth. It should not be sticky; add more flour if needed.

3. Shape into a round loaf, place on an ungreased sheet, and sprinkle flour on top. With a paring knife, cut a deep sign of the cross in it (lets the faeries out).

4. Bake for 15 minutes, then turn the oven down to 400 degrees and bake for another 30 minutes.

5. Cool on racks. Cut into wedges and spread with butter.