1/2 tbsp. baking soda dissolved in
3/4 c. boiling water
1/2 c. molasses
1 beaten egg yolk, or whole egg

Crumbs:
3/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. each nutmeg, ginger, cloves (cloves optional)
1/2 c. brown sugar
2 tbsp. shortening
1/2 tsp. salt

Combine dry ingredients with shortening, using hands to work into crumbs. Line a 9 inch pie plate with pastry. Fill with liquid and top with crumbs. Bake in hot oven (400 degrees) until crust starts to brown, about 10 minutes. Then reduce heat to 325 degrees and bake until firm.