2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/3 c. shortening-butter
1 c. buttermilk (works just as well with reg. milk)

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

2. Mix dry ingredients together. Cut in shortening until mixture is crumbly. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk all at once. Stir with fork just until blended.

3. For drop biscuits, drop dough by tablespoonfuls, about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 12 minutes or until golden brown.

VARIATIONS:

CHEESE BISCUITS: Add 1 teaspoon dry mustard to dry ingredients. Stir in 3/4 cup sharp Cheddar cheese (shredded) before adding milk.

BACON BISCUITS: Stir 1/3 cup crumbled crispy bacon into dry ingredients before adding milk.

HERB BISCUITS: Stir 1/4 cup snipped, fresh chives or parsley (or whatever else you might like) into dry ingredients before adding milk.