Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Have all ingredients at room temperature. Sift into large mixer bowl:

2 c. sifted flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves

Add the rest of the ingredients:

1/2 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
1 egg, unbeaten
1/3 c. buttermilk
1/3 c. molasses
1/2 c. soft shortening

Mix at low speed for 3 minutes, scraping sides. When well mixed, drop by teaspoonful onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 18 minutes.