Grandma's Oatmeal Raisin Big Cookies

1/2 c raisins
1/3 c water
1/2 c vegetable shortening
1 egg
1 1/2 c dark brown sugar
1 1/2 t vanilla
2 c all-purpose flour
1 1/4 c oats,(not instant)
2 t baking soda
3/4 t cinnamon
1 t salt
1/2 c raisins
1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees.
2. Combine raisins with water in a food processor and blend on high speed for
about 1 minute or until very smooth.
3. Combine this raisin puree with the vegetable shortening, egg, brown
sugar and vanilla in a large bowl. Mix well with electric mixer until
smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the oats, baking
soda, cinnamon and salt. Pour this dry mixture into the wet mixture
andmix well until ingredients are incorporated. Mix in raisins.
5. Roll 3 tablespoon portions of the dough into a ball in your hands and
press to 1/2-inch flat on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 18-20
minutes. Be careful not to overcook, or the cookies will not be chewy.
Store in a sealed container.
Makes 16 to 18 cookies.