Chocolate Dumplings

To make sauce, combine sugar, cocoa, salt and cornstarch in a large saucepan. Stir in water and butter. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and set aside while preparing the dumplings.

Prepare the dumplings by sifting the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cocoa powder. Add shortening, egg, milk and vanilla; stir to combine. Beat by hand for one minute.

Meanwhile, return sauce to a boil. Drop dumplings by tablespoons into sauce. Reduce heat to a low, gentle simmer. Cover and DO NOT LIFT THE LID for 20 minutes.

Uncover and serve while warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream or just have them plain.