Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes at medium speed.
Add in the egg, molasses, and hot water and mix until combined.
Slowly add the flour and salt into the bowl, a little bit at a time. Mix until everything is fully combined.
Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Then gently flatten each cookie with the palm of your hand.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.