My sister Julie used to make these when I was a kid — I’d never heard the term “merengue” back then. I was just impressed with my big sister’s ability to make cookies!

2 egg whites
3/4 C sugar
1/2 C nuts, crushed
1 6-0z pkg semi-sweet chocolate bits

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Beat egg whites until peaks form. Add sugar and continue beating until very stiff. Fold in chocolate bits and nuts. Drop by level teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets. Place in oven and turn off heat. Let remain in oven until cookies cool to room temperature. (May be left in oven overnight and removed in the morning) Store in airtight container. Yields 2 to 2-1/2 dozen.