2 1/4 c. sifted flour
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tbsp. hot water
1/2 c. soft shortening
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg
6 tbsp. cold water
1/2 c. seedless raisins or chopped nuts

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Sift together flour, ginger, cinnamon and salt. Dissolve baking soda in hot water. Mix shortening, sugar, molasses and eggs until creamy. Mix in flour mixture alternately with cold water, then mix in baking soda and all but a few raisins or nuts.

Drop by rounded tablespoonful 2 inches apart onto greased cookie sheet. Sprinkle with remaining raisins or nuts. Bake 12 minutes or until done. Makes about 2 dozen.