1/2 c. molasses
4 tbsp. shortening
1 1/2 c. flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 tsp. powdered ginger
3/4 tsp. salt

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Heat the molasses to the boiling point, pour it over the shortening, and stir to combine well. Mix together the flour, baking soda, ginger, and salt and add to the molasses mixture, blending well. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out on an unfloured board as thin as possible. Cut into 1 1/2-inch rounds with a small cutter or the edge of a small drinking glass. Bake on ungreased cookie sheets for about 5 minutes or until crisp and dry. Makes about 50 cookies.