Microwave Pralines

3/4 cup buttermilk

2 cups pecan halves

2 tbsp. margarine

2 cups sugar

1/8 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

In a very large microwave-proof glass bowl, combine all ingredients except baking soda.  Microwave on high power for 12 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes with a wooden spoon.  Stir in baking soda until mixture is foamy.  Microwave 1 more minute to give mixture a caramel color.

Beat with wooden spoon until tacky--about 1 minute. Quickly drop, using a spoon, onto buttered foil.  Pralines will set in about 15 minutes.

Variation: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla before the final 5 minutes of cooking.