2 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 c. vegetable shortening
1/2 c. finely ground country ham
3/4 c. buttermilk

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt in deep bowl. Cut shortening and ham into flour mixture with pastry blender until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in buttermilk until dough leaves side of bowl.

Turn dough onto lightly floured surface. Knead gently until smooth, about a minute. Roll dough into 1/2 inch thick circle or rectangle; cut with biscuit cutter dipped in flour and place dough on greased baking sheet. Bake in 425°F oven until golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Makes about 1 1/2 dozen biscuits.