Brownies

In a large saucepan, melt chocolate and shortening.

Remove from heat and add sugar, eggs and vanilla essence. Mix thoroughly.

Stir in remaining ingredients.

Pour batter into a greased baking pan 13 x9 x2 inches.

Bake in preheated oven at 350°C for 30 minutes or until brownies start to pull away from sides of pan.

Cool completely, cut into 24 squares.