American Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

This might seem a strange recipe to come from a New Zealander; I have no idea if it is actually American. Whatever its origin, it is still a family favourite.

Ingredients:

200g butter 1 cup sugar
½ tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla
1 egg ½ tsp baking soda
¼ cup warm water 1 ½ cups flour
3 cups rolled oats ½ cup chocolate chips
½ cup raisins (optional)

Cream butter and sugar, salt and vanilla, add egg and beat until well creamed. Add baking soda dissolved in water. Add dry ingredients. Roll into balls and flatten slightly. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12 – 15 minutes.