Ingredients

1 1/2 cups flour , 1/4 cup cocoa powder , 1 teaspoon baking powder , 1 teaspoon baking soda , 1/3 cup sugar , 2 cups buttermilk , 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter , 2 large eggs -- separated , 1 teaspoon vanilla extract , Pinch cream of tartar , 1 cup chopped pecans (optional) , Ice cream -- for accompaniment

Method

1. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar. Make a well in center of sifted dry ingredients. , 2. In a separate bowl mix buttermilk, oil, egg yolks, and vanilla. Pour into the well and mix with dry ingredients. , 3. Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually fold into batter, one third at a time. Fold in pecans (if used). , 4. Cook in waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. Top with ice cream. , Makes 4 large waffles.