1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter
1 cup cocoa
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup nuts (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 13×9 inch pan. Melt shortening and butter over low heat or in the microwave. Remove from heat and add cocoa, blend well. Add sugar and mix well. Add eggs one at a time, beat well after each addition. Stir in vanilla, flour, and salt. DO NOT OVERBEAT! Fold in nuts. Bake 25-30 minutes. Cool completely!
VARIATION
Extra Rich Brownies
Melt 4 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate in with the butter and shortening. Use 3/4 cup cocoa and1-1/4 cups flour. Proceed as directed.