Southern Raised Biscuits

Makes: ~2 dozen

2 packages dry yeast
1/4 cup tepid water (105 to 115 degrees)
2 cups buttermilk
5 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 TBS baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 cup vegetable shortening

Combine yeast and warm water; let stand 5 minutes or until bubbly. Add buttermilk and and set aside. Combine dry ingredients. Cut in shortening. Add buttermilk mixture gradually, gently combining with a fork. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly 4 or 5 times. Roll dough to 1/2 " thickness, cut and place on greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 1 hour. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly browned. To freeze, bake only about 6 minutes, cool, wrap airtight and freeze. Finish baking on a greased baking sheet at 450 degrees for about 6 more minutes or until browned.