Damper Bread

This bread dates back to the early days of the Australian colonies. It may have been named for William Dampier, an early explorer.

Ingredients

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (105 degrees F to 115 degrees F)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1 cup buttermilk

Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water; stir in sugar.
2. Mix flour, baking powder and salt in large bowl; cut in shortening until mixture resembles fine crumbs.
3. Stir in yeast mixture and buttermilk until soft dough forms. Turn dough onto lightly floured surface; gently knead until smooth, about 1 minute. Cover; let rest 10 minutes.
4. Shape dough into a round 7 inch diameter loaf. Place on greased cookie sheet. Cover; let rise in warm place 30 minutes.
5. Heat oven to 375 degrees F.
6. Cut an X about 1/2 inch deep in top of bread. Bake until golden brown, about 35 minutes.
7. Serve warm. Tear bread into pieces to serve.