What is the tradition of buttered bread, Ireland?

This is an old Irish custom of celebrating New Year’s Day, which was also known as the Day of the Buttered Bread. It is not popular among the people of Ireland today. According to food anthropologists, until the 20th Century, buttered bread was either placed on the doorstep for passers-by or thrown at the door and taken back to be consumed. Butter and bread were luxurious products during that period and this tradition was a symbol of banishing hunger and welcoming plenitude.

Usually sold in flattened rounds, it is often served toasted with butter along with a cup of tea in the afternoon. The dough is sweeter than sandwich bread, but not as rich as cake, and the sultanas and raisins add flavour and texture to the final product.

 

Picture Credit : Google