In a large bowl, mix together the soft shortening, brown sugar, egg, molasses.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Gradually stir in with the shortening mixture. Cover and refrigerate dough at least 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease cookie sheets.

Shape dough by rounded teaspoonfuls into balls. Dip tops in granulated sugar. Place balls, sugared side up, about 3 inches apart on prepared cookies sheet.

Bake just until set, approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately remove from cookie sheet.

Yields about 4 dozen cookies.