Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl.

Add the buttermilk to the dry ingredients.

Melt the rest of the non-dry ingredients over low heat.

When sugar is melted, cool mixture slightly and add to mixing bowl. Mix well and knead, if necessary.

Press mixture into 2 bread pans.

Bake at 355°F for 1 hour. If it's not quite done yet, cover loosely with foil and put back in oven for a while.

Cut into strips and lay them on cookie sheets to dry out in oven at 170°F for a few hours (flip once).

Store in airtight containers.