Manhattan Irish Soda Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
2 cups whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold butter, cut into small pieces
2 cups buttermilk
1/2 cup seedless dark raisins

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Butter a deep round or oval 2-quart casserole and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the two flours, baking soda, and salt, and stir till well blended. Add the butter and, using your fingertips, squeeze the flour and butter together till the texture resembles coarse meal. add the buttermilk and raisins and stir with a wooden spoon till well blended.

3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface, knead till smooth, 5 to 7 minutes, then form into a round loaf large enough to fit easily in the prepared casserole and place the loaf in the casserole. With a sharp knife, cut a 4-inch cross about 1/4 inch deep in the top of the dough, dust lightly with white flour, and bake till crusty brown and hollow-sounding when thumped, about 45 minutes. Let cool slightly, in the casserole, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. To serve, cut into thin wedges.

Makes 1 loaf; 6 servings