1 1/2 cups sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt (actually, this is an approximation; just put some damn salt in)
1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 cups semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (this, too, is an approximation, and only optional, but recommended)
3/4 cup walnuts ( extremely optional)

Grease (or, better yet, line with plastic wrap or wax paper) an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or vegetable shortening.

Combine the sugar, butter, salt and evaporated milk in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly. until the mixture comes to a boil, then lower the heat slightly and continue to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and stir in the chocolate chips, continuing to stir gently until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth. Add the vanilla and the walnuts at this point if you are using them.

Pour and scrape into the prepared pan, cover and chill until firm, about 2 hours. Cut into sqaures to serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.