Happy St. Patrick's Day

Living in Chicago, St. Patrick's Day is a pretty big deal around here: the City has two parades; the river gets dyed into a bright green; there's an 8K run; several bars begin festivities around 8am. 

Corned beef and cabbage with carrots and red potatoes are mandatory in this household. Last year, I made Smitten Kitchen's "Irish Car bomb cupcakes," and I might still make them later in the week. However, for March 17, I opted for Irish Soda Bread, but a slightly Americanized version by King Arthur. The batter comes together quickly, which is always a plus. There is sugar in the batter, but just enough to make the crumb tender and slightly moist. The exterior bakes up into a nice crunch. This bread was great on its own or with a smear of Irish butter.