Place flour in large bowl; add baking powder, sugar and salt. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles fine crumbs. If needed, add water a little at a time, mixing well to form a dough. Using your hands, work the mixture into a dough and knead gently on a floured surface. Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes.
Roll into a rectangle 1/4 inch thick and cut into squares. Heat oil in a deep fryer and drop squares into oil, turning so they will puff evenly. Brown on both sides, drain on paper towels. You can make the dough up to 6 hrs in advance and fry when ready to eat.
NOTE: Traditionally, sopapillas are served warm with honey, or they may be rolled while hot in a mixture of 1/2 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
