Southwestern Biscuits

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 450°.
2. 2
   Combine first 4 ingredients in a large bowl.
3. 3
   Add and cut in the shortening using a pastry blender or two knives until mixture has the consistency of coarse crumbs.
4. 4
   Add remaining ingredients, adding more milk, if necessary, so dough is pliable but is still wet.
5. 5
   Turn dough onto a heavily floured surface and knead it lightly (8 to 10 times).
6. 6
   Do not overwork dough.
7. 7
   Roll dough to even thickness of 3/4 to 1-inch and cut out biscuits with a 2-inch round cutter (size of juice can), dipping cutter between cutting each biscuit so they won't stick.
8. 8
   Place on ungreased cookie sheet and bake in center of oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
9. 9
   Serve immediately or bake up to 2 hours in advance and reheat 5 minutes at 300°.
10. 10
    Makes 12 to 14 biscuits.