1/3 c. shortening
1 3/4 c. flour
2 1/2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. salt
3/4 c. milk

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Cut shortening into flour, baking powder, and salt with pastry blender or 2 knives. Stir in milk. Turn dough onto lightly floured board. Knead 10 times. Roll to 1/2 inch thick. Cut with 2 inch biscuit cutter and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 10 to 12 minutes. Makes about 1 dozen.

VARIATIONS:

1. Add 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheese.

2. Substitute 1 cup unflavored yogurt for milk, add 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon chopped chives.

3. Add 1 1/2 teaspoon caraway seed; 1/2 teaspoon sage and 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard to dry ingredients.

4. Add 1/4 cup wheat germ to dry ingredients.

5. Use whole wheat flour instead of white.