Southwestern Biscuits

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 450F (230C).
2. 2
   Combine flour, baking powder, salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
3. 3
   Cut in the vegetable shortening using a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture has the consistency of coarse crumbs.
4. 4
   Add the chilies, cheese and milk, adding more milk if necessary so the dough is pliable but is still wet.
5. 5
   Turn the dough onto a heavily floured surface, and knead it lightly (8 to 10 times).
6. 6
   Do not overwork the dough.
7. 7
   Roll the dough to an even thickness of 3/4 to 1 inch, and cut out biscuits with a 2-inch round cutter (the diameter of a juice can), dipping the cutter in flour between cutting each biscuit so they do not stick.
8. 8
   Place the biscuits on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake in the center of the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. 9
   Serve immediately, or bake up to 2 hours in advance and reheat for 5 minutes in a 300F (150C) oven.