Fried Gorditas

Aunt Chilada's Recipe

2 cups all purpose flour 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder 

4 tablespoons vegetable shortening 

2/3 cup water or milk

oil for frying

filling, as desired

Combine flour, salt, baking powder and shortening; mix until shortening is blended. Add water; mix well. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured board; knead until smooth, about 2 minutes. Roll dough into a ball; place into a plastic bag. Separate and roll out enough dough to make six (4-6 inch) thin, flat rounds.

In a cast iron skillet, heat oil to 375 degrees. Place rounds in oil; cook each side 20 to 30 seconds or until light golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove rounds from skillet; drain on paper towel. Fill with prepared fillings as desired.