A favorite candy recipe from my Cajun friends.

2 c. sugar
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
Dash of salt
2 tbsp. butter
2 3/4 c. pecans, broken
1 tsp. vanilla

In a large heavy saucepan combine sugar, buttermilk, soda and salt. Cook over high heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Add butter and pecans; continue cooking until candy reaches soft ball stage or 234 degrees on candy thermometer. Remove from heat, add vanilla and allow to cool. Beat vigorously until creamy and drop from teaspoon onto waxed paper.