3/4 c. vegetable shortening
1 c. sugar
1/4 c. molasses
1 egg
2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1/2 to 1 c. raisins (optional)

Melt shortening in microwave. Slowly stir in sugar and molasses. Beat in egg well. Sift together flour, soda, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Add to sugar mixture. Mix in raisins, if desired. Roll into 1 to 1 1/2 inch balls; roll in sugar. Place on greased cookie sheet (not too close - they spread while baking). Bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Makes 3 dozen cookies.