Southern Pralines
["2 c. sugar", "2 c. pecan halves", "3/4 c. buttermilk", "2 Tbsp. butter or margarine", "1/8 tsp. salt", "3/4 tsp. baking soda"]
["Combine all ingredients, except the baking soda, in a large heavy saucepan.", "Cook over low heat, stirring gently, until sugar dissolves.", "Cover and cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes to wash down sugar crystals from sides of pan.", "Uncover and cook to soft ball stage (235\u00b0), stirring constantly.", "Remove from heat and stir in soda.", "Beat with a wooden spoon just until mixture begins to thicken.", "Working fast, drop by tablespoons onto greased wax paper.", "Let stand until firm.", "Yield: 1 1/2 to 2 dozen."]
["sugar", "pecan halves", "buttermilk", "butter", "salt", "baking soda"]