Irish Soda Bread-Savory

After making the sweet Irish Soda Bread from Sunset Breads cookbook, I wanted to make a savory version.  Here it is.  You can play with any herbs and seasonings you like.  I'm going to add some minced onion to my next batch, and maybe parsley. This is nice with a soup or stew.

Irish Soda Bread-Savory
3 c. flour
3 Tbsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. crushed dried rosemary
1 c. grated cheddar cheese
1 3/4 c. buttermilk
2 eggs
3 Tbsp. melted butter or margarine, divided

Combine dry ingredients with cheese in a bowl.  In a separate bowl, beat together buttermilk, eggs and 2 Tbsp. of the melted butter.  Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until moistened.  Pour batter into a greased 10 inch oven-proof skillet or cheesecake pan with removable bottom.  Pour remaining butter over the top. You can sprinkle on extra rosemary for garnish.  Bake at 350 for 40-45 min. until brown.  Serve warm.  Makes 1 loaf, about 10 servings.

Notes: to "oven-proof" a skillet, wrap the handle in aluminum foil.  Silicone handles should already be alright in the oven.

Jenny