Hawaiian Dim Sum Almond-Style Cookies

Preheat your oven to the desired temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Set aside a small container filled with a few drops of red food coloring, which will be used later.

Using an electric mixer, combine the shortening and sugar in a mixing bowl until they achieve a smooth consistency. Introduce the egg and almond extract into the mixture, blending them thoroughly.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the sugar-shortening mixture, ensuring they are well combined.

Scoop up a small amount of dough using a spoon and shape it into a walnut-sized ball. Place the ball onto an ungreased cookie sheet, gently pressing it with your thumb to create a flat surface on top. Be cautious not to flatten the cookie.

Using a bamboo chopstick, dip its tip into the red food coloring and apply it to the center of each cookie, creating a distinctive red dot.

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are slightly browned. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack.