Polly Day's Pralines

Combine sugar, baking soda, buttermilk and salt in heavy, deep pan.

Cook briskly for 5 minutes on high heat, stirring constantly with long handled wooden spoon.

Without ceasing the stirring process, add butter and pecans; continue cooking on high heat for an additional 5 minutes.

Test by dropping a dab in cold water. Unless mixture forms a soft ball, return to heat and cook another minute.