optional:
2 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. finely shredded orange peel
1 T. buttermilk

Stir together the flour, 1/2 c. sugar, baking powder, orange peel,baking, soda, and salt. Using pastry blender, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in center of dry mixture. Combine egg, buttermilk, and raisins. Add all at once to dry mixture, stirring just until moistened. Turn onto lightly floured surface and knead 10-12 times until nearly smooth. Divide into two pieces. Pat each piece into 7 inch circle. Cut into 8 wedges. Place wedges onto ungreased baking sheet.

Optional:
Combine sugar and orange peel. Brush wedges with buttermilk and sprinkle with sugar/peel mixture. Bake at 400° for 12 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Variations: Add chopped pecans or sliced almonds, and Substitute dried cranberries or cherries for raisins.