Whole Wheat Olive Oil Biscuits

I paid a visit to my Dad this past weekend, and as usual, I took advantage of the opportunity to transform some food in his spacious and cook-friendly kitchen. It was a collaborative effort on this occasion, with Dad providing the chili and me, a spicy Indian potato dish, along with some quick and easy biscuits. Though they are filling and made with whole wheat flour, these biscuits are surprising delicate, with a melt in your mouth quality that is not to be resisted. Serve warm with a pat of butter.

Whole Wheat Olive Oil Biscuits

1 cup of unbleached white flour
1 cup of whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon of baking powder
1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
pinch of salt
1/4 cup of butter, chilled
1/4 cup of olive oil
3/4 cup of milk or yogurt
handful of raisins, currants, cranberries, cherries, chopped nuts, fresh or dried berries or any other additions you would like

Grease a large baking sheet with butter or oil.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add the oil and butter and cut the butter into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter or a knife and fork until only small pieces are visible. Make a well in the center of the mixture.

Add the milk or yogurt, and stir gently until the dough holds together. If you are adding any fruit, raisins, berries or other additions, stir them in with the milk. Gently shape the dough into 2 inch rounds approximately 1 inch thick and transfer to the baking sheet. Bake in a preheated over for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Makes 8 - 10 biscuits.