1 package active dry yeast
½ cup warm water, separated
1/3 cup sugar, separated
½ cup mashed potatoes (dry, no added butter or milk)
1/3 cup shortening
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons milk
In a small glass bowl or measuring cup, whisk to combine the yeast, 1/3 cup of the warm water and 2 teaspoons of the sugar Set aside for 3-5 minutes, until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the remaining ingredients, mixing just until a smooth dough forms.
Shape the dough into a ball, and place it in a bowl sprayed with cooking spray or vegetable oil. Cover with plastic wrap, and set in a warm place to rise for one hour.
Punch down the dough, and divide into handful-sized pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a ball, and place them close together but not quite touching on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Preheat the oven to 375 F.
Cover the rolls with plastic wrap lightly sprayed with cooking spray, and set them in a warm place to rise for an additional 30-40 minutes.
Lightly brush the rolls with milk, then bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack, and allow to cool completely before serving.