Chef John's Buttermilk Biscuits

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 475 degrees F (245 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in buttermilk until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface, and knead lightly for about 1 minute.
5. Pat dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut with a biscuit cutter. Place biscuits 1 inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Interesting Facts

• Buttermilk is made from the liquid left behind after churning butter from cream.
• Buttermilk biscuits were traditionally made with lard, but butter is often used as a healthier alternative.
• Biscuits are best served warm and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.