Preheatthe oven to 325 degrees F. Sift together the flour, ginger, baking soda,cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 cup of sugar until lightand fluffy.
Beat in the egg, then stir in the water and molasses. Gradually stir the siftedingredients into the molasses mixture.
Shape dough into walnut-sized balls, and roll them in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar.
Placethe cookies 2 inches apart onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
Allowcookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing them to awire rack to cool completely.