DOUGH:

1) Sift all dry ingredients together.

2) Add shortening, toss with the dry ingredients and with a light touch, break into pea size pieces.

3) Add liquid.

4) Gently toss ingredients together. Turn out onto a bench and knead gently 10-20 times. Do not overwork!

5) Makeup and bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes.

VARIATIONS:

BUTTERMILK - Use buttermilk in place of milk.

CHEESE BISCUITS - Add 10 ounces of cheddar cheese.

HERB BISCUITS - Add 2 ounces of fresh chopped herbs.