Swiss Cheese Squares

This is an oldie but goodie….

• 2 cups flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter **recipe follows
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup grated swiss cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 tbsp poppy seeds

Combine flour, baking powder, soda and salt. Cut in shortening until it resembles dry cornmeal.

Add starter and enough milk to form a soft dough that cleans the side of the bowl. Add cheese and knead lightly into the dough.

Pat or roll to 1/2 inch thick.  Cut into squares using a serrated knife.  Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with poppy seeds.

Place on a cookie sheet with parchment paper and bake at 450 degrees for about 10 minutes.

Sourdough Starter

• 2 cups warm water
• 2 cups flour

Using a crock, combine ingredients. Place in a warm place 3-4 days until bubbly and sour smelling. Refrigerate.

Each time it is used, replenish equal parts, cover and refrigerate.

NEVER use all of the starter at one time.