Buttermilk Biscuits

2 cups sifted flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/3 cup solid shortening
3/4 cup buttermilk

Blend flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda together in a medium sized bowl.  Cut in shortening with a pastry blend or two knives until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.  Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients; add buttermilk all at one time.  Stir with a fork. Gently form dough into a ball and put on a lightly floured surface. Knead lightly with finger tips 10-15 times.  Roll out dough to 1/2 inch thickness.  Cut with floured cutter or knife using even pressure to keep side straight.  Place on baking sheet close together for soft sided biscuits or 1 inch apart for crusty sides.  Brush tops lightly with milk.  Bake at 450 degrees for 10-15 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.  Makes about 24 (1 1/2 inch) biscuits

From the recipes of Mrs. Johnson, Miami, TX

http://www.nancyskitchen.com