COUNTRY HAM HERB BISCUITS

2 cups all purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
sugar (dash)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/8 tsp ground red pepper
1/3 cup shortening
1/2 cup ham, cooked, chopped
1/3 cup fresh herbs, snipped parsley, thyme, chives
3/4 cup buttermilk
Dijon-style mustard (optional)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, ginger and red pepper in a large bowl. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.*

Add the chopped ham and snipped herb. Toss until combines. Add the buttermilk all at once. Stir until the dough clings together.

Knead the dough gently on a floured surface fro 10 to 12 strokes. Roll or pat the dough to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Cut with a 1 1/2- to 2 1/2-inch round cutter, dipping the cutter into flour between cuts. Place the biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet and brush the tops with melted butter.

Bake in a 425 degrees F oven for 15 to 20 minutes , until golden. Serve warm.

Serve with Dijon-style mustard, if desired.

* TIP: The shortening can be cut in with a food processor. Combine all of the dry ingredients in the processor bowl, then add the shortening. Process, using an on/off action, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and continue as directed.

Makes 12 large biscuits or 24 small biscuits
From: Jeannette Ferrary
Source: Country Home; December 1994