2 c. plain flour (omit next 3 ingredients if using self-rising flour)
1/2 tsp. salt
4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
5 tbsp. shortening
1 c. buttermilk (1 c. plain milk plus 1 tsp. vinegar is substitute)

Sift flour, salt, baking powder and soda together. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add buttermilk all at once; stir until dough follows a fork around bowl. Place on well-floured surface; knead 30 seconds. Roll 1/2 inch thick; cut with biscuit cutter. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 450 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Yield 1 dozen large biscuits.