Southern Style Biscuits - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/3 cup butter, cut into pieces
1/3 cup shortening
4 cups self-rising flour
1 1/2 - 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
butter, melted (optional)

Preparation

Cut the butter and shortening into the flour until it forms small pieces.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the buttermilk. Stir until the dry ingredients are moistened. Use the first amount of liquid listed; add more if it seems too dry. You want a \"wet\" dough, but not a drippy one.
Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 3 to 4 times.
Roll out to 3/4 inch thickness. Cut into biscuits with a medium or large round cutter.
Place together on a lightly greased baking pan.
Bake at 425 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden.
Brush with melted butter, if desired. Serve while they are hot.