Crosby's Molasses Irish Soda Bread

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Put the 1/2 cup oats in mixing bowl.

Step 3: Stir in the buttermilk, molasses and oil; reserve.

Step 4: Whisk dry ingredients in large bowl.

Step 5: Make a well in the dry mixture and add the liquid all at once.

Step 6: Add currants.

Step 7: Stir until dough pulls together in a shaggy mass.

Step 8: Let rest 3 minutes.

Step 9: Flour your work surface and hands.

Step 10: Scoop the dough onto floured surface and knead gently, sprinkling with flour as required.

Step 11: Knead gently just until dough comes together, cut in half and shape into two balls.

Step 12: Place on a parchment lined baking sheet that has been sprinkled with cornmeal.

Step 13: Using a sharp, serrated knife, make two parallel slashes on the surface of the dough, about 3/4 -inch deep.

Step 14: Leave plenty of room between the loaves.

Step 15: Bake at 400 Farenheit for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375 and bake 20 minutes more, until dark and crusty.

Step 16: When done, the bottom should sound hollow when tapped with a finger.

Step 17: Cool loaves before slicing