4 c. sugar
1 c. light corn syrup
3/4 c. water
1/4 tsp. salt
3 egg whites
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. nuts (optional)

Mix together sugar, corn syrup, water and salt in 1 1/2 quart dish. Cook in microwave at full power for 20-22 minutes or until hard ball stage. Stir at least 2 times.

While that cooks, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form in large mixing bowl. Gradually add hot syrup mixture over egg whites, beating at high speed until mixture is thick and candy starts to lose its gloss. May take up to 12 minutes.

Add vanilla and nuts. Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper. Candy may be tinted with food coloring.