Here’s the backstory on why I simply love St. Patrick’s Day! Moving to New Jersey was difficult because I mistakenly thought I’d never have access to the culture I grew up with when living in NYC. It was learning a new way of life all over again and learning to make new friends. Fortunately for me, a beautiful Irish family steeped in tradition befriended our family and I’ll always be thankful for it! I must say, over the years I went to my fair share of Irish Dances and hey if pressed I might do a jig or two. Secretly making irish soda bread for St. Patrick’s Day along with corned beef, cabbage and potatoes washed down with a brew or too listening to Oh Danny Boy.
What does this Chinese American know about St. Patrick’s Day and Oh Danny Boy? Well listen, I know enough that I just always felt welcomed and loved that they introduced me to this beautiful Celtic culture. Don’t believe me? I have handmade jewelry trinkets, claddagh friendship ring and trinket holder straight from Galway, Ireland. I’ve attended my fair share of Irish Festivals and I absolutely love the dance performances. Every St. Patrick’s day, I want to find a local Irish pub in the area just to celebrate. I just love it! Who doesn’t want to celebrate in green attire and listen to bagpipes in a warm parade?
Each year, a local township in West Orange right on Main Street offers up a family friendly parade! I encourage you to go!
Meanwhile here goes some Irish Soda Bread with Cranberries with butter and organic milk vs. buttermilk. Delish!
- 4 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1⅔ cup milk
- ½ teaspon butter (cold) cut
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 cup cranberries
- Preheat the oven to 400F.
- Put the milk and vinegar in a bowl, stir and let sit for around 5 minutes
- Put flour, baking soda, salt and sugar in another large bowl and stir to combine. Add the milk and vinegar mixture and raisins. Mix until all flour and feel free to use your hands.
- Put the dough ball on a baking sheet. Shape the dough into flattened ball shape. Tap down slightly on the top.
- Mark an X on the top (optional).
- Place in oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve up with some more butter or your favorite jam! I’m a fan of the organic wild blueberry jam myself, but anything will do! After all, it’s St. Patty’s Day!
