Biscuits

(1) preheat the oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda. Using a pastry blender or two knifes, cut the shortening into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form. (2) add the buttermilk, tossing with a fork until dough forms. (3) turn dough onto a lightly floured board. Gather into a disk. Knead lightly a few times just until smooth. (the dough can be made up to 2 hours ahead, wrapped in plastic wrap, and refrigerated until ready to use. (4) pat the dough to 3/4 inch thick. Using a biscuit cutter or a glass dipped in flour, cut out biscuits. Place biscuits, 2 inches apart, on ungreased baking sheet. Gather dough trimmings, pat to 3/4 inch thick and cut out more biscuits. (5) bake the biscuits until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve hot (6) if desired add a little bit of nutmeg and cinnamon to your likeness