This is my grandmothers recipe that I have enjoyed all my life. I hope you like them as much as our family has.
3/4 cup shortening (Crisco is what I use)
1 cup light brown sugar-packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup water
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
3 cups uncooked oats
1/2 cup raisins
Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts or coconut
Heat 1/4 cup water and 1/2 cup raisins until raisins are tender. Cool and retain water.
In large bowl cream together shortening ,brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla, and water from raisins. ( If water from raisins is less than 1/4 cup, add additional water to make up the difference)
In small bowl sift together flour, salt and baking soda
Add flour mixture to cream mixture, mix well.
With large spoon mix in oats and raisins. (Add nuts and coconut here if you like)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place on cookie sheet and cook for 12-15 minutes