South Georgia Biscuits

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 450°F (220°C).

2. 2

   Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Work the shortening into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the pieces are no larger than small peas. Add the milk in one pour and stir with a large spoon until the dough comes together evenly — it will be sticky.

3. 3

   Lightly flour your hands and fold the dough over itself 3 or 4 times, dusting with just enough flour to prevent sticking. Allow the dough to rest for 1–2 minutes.

4. 4

   With generously floured hands, pull off roughly 12 equal portions of dough and gently shape each into a ball without overworking it. Arrange them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets, then flatten each ball to about ½ inch thick using floured knuckles.

5. 5

   Bake for 11–12 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown. Serve immediately with butter.