Pralines
["2 c. sugar", "1 tsp. baking soda", "1 c. buttermilk", "2 tsp. vanilla", "2 c. pecan halves"]
["Combine sugar, soda and buttermilk in medium size saucepan. Place over moderate heat (250\u00b0).", "Cook, stirring occasionally, until a small amount of the syrup forms soft ball when dropped into ice water or candy thermometer registers 236\u00b0.", "Remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes.", "Add vanilla and nuts; beat with wooden spoon until slightly thickened.", "Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper.", "Let stand until set.", "Makes about 16 pieces."]
["sugar", "baking soda", "buttermilk", "vanilla", "pecan halves"]