Buttermilk Biscuits with Tomato Gravy

Directions

BISCUITS In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt and baking soda; cut in shortening.

Knead in buttermilk. (The dough will be sticky, but don’t add extra flour; biscuits won’t be as light and fluffy). Roll out and cut with a biscuit cutter; place biscuits on a greased baking sheet with sides just touching. Brush with butter. Bake at 450F for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops and bottoms are light brown. GRAVY: Meanwhile, for gravy, peel and cut tomatoes into a bowl, reserving the juice. In a sauce pan, melt butter; add flour and stir until browned. Gradually add water. Stir in tomatoes and juice. Add milk, salt and pepper; simmer for 15 minutes.