1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
3/4 cup mashed very ripe banana
1 tsp. Vanilla
1 1/4 cup sifted flour
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. Salt

Cream shortening and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in banana and vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together and add to banana mixture. Mix well. Pour into greased loaf pan or 9x9x2-inch pan. Bake at 350F for 30 to 35 minutes.

Note: Note: 1/2 cup chopped nuts can be added if desired.