Hot Water Pastry

Directions

1. 1
   Put shortening in a medium bowl and boil the water.
2. 2
   Pour water over shortening and blend till all the water is absorbed and the mixture is smooth.
3. 3
   Add the flour,salt and baking soda.I put the soda and salt in the first cup of flour and mix in one cup at a time in case you don't need all of the flour. Usually you do.
4. 4
   Once it is mixed and in one large ball, you can then cut this down to 3 individual balls of dough, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours. If you want a larger pie crust, just do 2 balls of dough.
5. 5
   If you do not use all the dough it can be kept in the fridge for about a week or so or even frozen.
6. 6
   Bake these pie crusts up as you would any others. I usually bake them at 350-400 for 12-15 minutes, or till golden brown.
7. 7
   Follow instructions for double crust fruit pies when using those recipes.