Chocolate Chip Cookies
["1/2 c. shortening", "1/2 c. margarine or butter", "2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour", "1 c. packed brown sugar", "2 eggs", "1/2 c. sugar", "1 tsp. vanilla", "1/2 tsp. baking soda", "1 (12 oz.) pkg. (2 c.) semi-sweet chocolate pieces", "1 c. chopped walnuts, pecans or hazelnuts (filberts; optional)"]
["In a mixing bowl, beat the shortening and margarine or butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add about half of the flour, the brown sugar, sugar, eggs, vanilla and baking soda.", "Beat mixture until thoroughly combined.", "Beat in the remaining flour.", "Stir in chocolate pieces and, if desired, nuts."]
["shortening", "margarine", "flour", "brown sugar", "eggs", "sugar", "vanilla", "baking soda", "semi-sweet chocolate pieces", "walnuts"]