Grandma Russ' Rock Cookies
["1 c. raisins", "2/3 c. shortening", "1 tsp. soda in 1/2 c. hot water", "1 1/2 c. brown sugar", "2 1/2 c. flour", "pinch of salt", "1 c. walnut meats", "chocolate chips, if desired"]
["Mix raisins, shortening, soda in hot water and brown sugar together.", "Add flour, walnut meats and chocolate chips.", "Chill well.", "Drop by teaspoons on greased cookie sheet.", "Bake at 350\u00b0 for 8 to 10 minutes.", "Makes approximately 2 dozen."]
["raisins", "shortening", "soda", "brown sugar", "flour", "salt", "walnut meats", "chocolate chips"]