1 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
1 egg
1 c. molasses
1/4 c. warm water
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
4 c. plain flour, sift before measuring
1/2 tsp. salt

Cream shortening with sugar and egg. Add molasses and beat well. Dissolve soda in water and vanilla. Add liquid mixture. Mix in flour and refrigerate until chilled through. Pinch off small bits of dough and roll into balls. Place on greased cookie sheet. Press down with fork and sprinkle top with white sugar. Bake at 325 degrees for 15 minutes.

Makes 4 to 5 dozen.