3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shortening
1/2 cup cider vinegar
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Mix flour and salt; cut in shortening until crumbly. With fork, gradually mix in just enough water (about 1/2 cup) until dough holds together. Divide dough into 3 equal portions. On lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into an oval 1/8-inch thick and 8- to 10-inches long. Cut lengthwise into 1-inch wide strips.

In an ovenproof 5-quart pot, combine vinegar, sugar, vanilla extract and 4 cups water. Bring to boil over high heat. Reserve 8 pastry strips; tear the remaining strips into 1/2-inch long pieces. Drop pieces into boiling liquid; boil 5 minutes. Remove pot from heat; Crisscross remaining 8 strips on top of the cooked dough pieces. Bake at 425 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes or until pastry on top is golden brown.

Serve warm or hot.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.