1 1/4 c. sifted flour
1/2 c. cocoa
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
1 1/2 c. rolled oats
1/2 c. shortening
1 tsp. vanilla
5 tbsp. hot water
1 egg, unbeaten

Sift together flour, cocoa, soda, and salt into a bowl. Add brown sugar and oats, rubbing together with hands until well mixed; set aside.

In a mixing bowl combine the shortening, vanilla, and hot water, stirring well. Add about half the dry ingredients and beat smooth. Add egg and beat well. Gradually stir in the rest of the dry ingredients, mixing with hands if necessary to make a stiff dough. (If too stiff, add a little more hot water.)

Shape into 1-inch balls; place two-inches apart on greased baking sheet. Press flat with bottom of greased water glass dipped in granulated sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 6-8 minutes. Makes about 4 dozen fudgy cookies.