Mormon Muffins

This recipe is from The Greenery Restaurant near Ogden, Utah. This muffin batter will keep in the refrigerator for 1 week, so you can bake several smaller batches, if desired.

2 cups boiling water
5 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup shortening
2 cups granulated sugar
4 eggs
5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 quart buttermilk
4 cups All-Bran