1/2 c. buttermilk
3 tbsp. oil
1 c. yellow cornmeal
1/2 c. unbleached pastry flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. chili powder (optional)

Combine buttermilk and oil. Mix into the rest of the ingredients in a large bowl. Knead on floured board about 5 minutes. Roll dough out. Cut into 1-inch squares. Sprinkle with salt. Bake on lightly greased baking sheet. 350 degrees about 12 minutes. Cool slightly before removing from baking sheet. Finish cooling on wire rack. Store in loosely covered container. Makes about 8 dozen.

CATRINA'S CHILI POWDER:

5-6 dried chilies (1-3 inches long)
2 tsp. cumin seed
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. garlic powder

Grind the chilies, cumin, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder in a spice mill until they are very fine. Makes about 1/4 cup.