2 1/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
5 tbsp. vegetable shortening or butter
1 c. buttermilk
Melted butter; optional

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Butter a large baking sheet.

Sift 2 cups of the flour with the dry ingredients into a shallow mixing bowl. Cut in the shortening with a pastry blender until mixture resembles cornmeal.

Make a well in the center, pour in the buttermilk all at once, and stir quickly with a rubber spatula until a dough is formed. If it seems very sticky, add the remaining flour.

Turn dough out on a floured surface and knead lightly for a dozen strokes. Pat out 1/2 inch thick.

Cut with floured 2 inch biscuit cutter or glass and place on baking sheet. If desired, brush biscuits with melted butter. Bake about 12 minutes. Serve immediately.

Makes 10-12 biscuits.