Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cloves. Stir in the carrot, raisins, walnuts and currants if using.
Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula just until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not wet and sticky. If so, sprinkle in a but more flour but try not to add in too much.
Transfer the dough to a well-floured work surface, and knead slightly for a few seconds. Pat into a 1 1/2-inch thick round and place onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a very sharp knife to cut a deep cross in the center of the dough reaching out all the way to the sides.
Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 400°F and continue to bake until the top is golden brown and the bottom of the bread sounds hallow when tapped, about 30 minutes longer. Remove from oven allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with salted butter or cream cheese. Enjoy!