Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Add all of the dry ingredients to a large bowl and mix very well. Pour all of the buttermilk into the bowl at once and stir, using a wooden spoon, just till a soft dough is formed.

Pour the contents of the bowl onto a lightly floured counter and knead for a minute or so till everything comes together.

Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a round loaf, pressing the top down a bit to just barely flatten it. Place the loaves on a large ungreased baking sheet.

Sprinkle with additional flour on the top.  Using a sharp knife, make the sign of a Cross in slashes on the top of the loaf.

Allow the loaves to rest for 10 minutes and then bake on the middle rack for 40 minutes or till the loaves are golden brown and done to taste.

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool before slicing or serving.

Soda bread can dry out quickly and is typically good for two to three days; it is best served warm or toasted.