2 1/2 c. flour
1 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. black pepper
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. shortening (part butter), softened
1 c. sugar
3 tbsp. light molasses
1/3 c. dark corn syrup
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp. vinegar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 tsp. hot water

Sift together flour, cocoa, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, pepper and soda. In a bowl, cream shortening and sugar together. Add molasses, syrup, egg, vinegar and vanilla to creamed mixture. Gradually add half the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Add hot water and remaining dry ingredients. Mix well. Chill dough for several hours. Measure one rounded teaspoon dough for each cookie, roll into a ball and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes.