Choco-Nut Meringues

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 275°.
2. 2
   Grease baking sheets; set aside.
3. 3
   In a large mixer bowl at high speed, beat the egg whites, vanilla, cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form.
4. 4
   Add sugar and, if desired, a few drops of food color.
5. 5
   Beat until very stiff and glossy and sugar is almost dissolved.
6. 6
   By hand, fold in pecans and chips.
7. 7
   Drop by well rounded teaspoonfuls about 1 inch apart onto baking sheets.
8. 8
   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until set and dry to the touch.
9. 9
   Cool cookies on baking sheets for 1 minute.
10. 10
    Carefully transfer cookies to wire racks to cool.
11. 11
    Store loosely covered. Makes about 5 dozen.