2 c. unsifted all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/3 c. shortening
1 c. buttermilk

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Into medium bowl, sift flour with baking powder, salt, and soda. With pastry blender, cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make well in center; pour in milk all at once. Stir with fork just until blended.

For drop biscuits: Drop dough by tablespoonfuls, about 2 inches apart, onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 12 minutes or until golden brown. Makes 14 to 16.

CHEESE BISCUITS:

Sift 1 teaspoon dry mustard with the dry ingredients. Stir in 3/4 cup grated, sharp Cheddar cheese before adding milk. Proceed as directed.

BACON BISCUITS:

Stir 1/3 cup crumbles, crisp-cooked bacon into dry ingredients before adding milk. Proceed as directed.

HERB BISCUITS:

Stir 1/4 cup snipped, fresh chives or parsley into dry ingredients before adding milk. Proceed as directed.