Mom's Chocolate Chip Meringue Cookies

• servings: 20 cookies
• total time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

2 egg whites, room temperature

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2/3 to 3/4 cup regular or superfine sugar (I use a bit less — a slightly heaped 1/2 cup)

6 ounces chocolate chips, miniature chips or finely diced semi or bittersweet chocolate

1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted first is even tastier (optional)