Heat oven to 350 F. Heat chocolate and shortening in 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted; remove from heat. Mix in sugar, eggs and vanilla. Stir in remaining ingredients. Spread in greased pan 8x8x2 inches. Bake until brownies begin to pull away from sides of pan, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool slightly. Cut into about 2-inch squares.
Fudgy Brownies: Substitute 1/2 cup butter for the shortening.
Increase vanilla to 1 teaspoon. Decrease flour to 1/2 cup and salt to 1/4 teaspoon. Omit baking powder. Spread in greased square pan, 9x9x2 inches or oblong baking dish, 12x7 1/2x2 inches. Bake 20 to 25 minutes.
(9x13 bake for 30-35 minutes).
Serving Size: 12.
