01 -
Preheat the oven to 120°C and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 -
Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease.
03 -
Beat the egg whites at medium speed until they become foamy.
04 -
Add the salt, then gradually add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, beating continuously until stiff, glossy peaks form.
05 -
Sift the cocoa powder and gently fold it into the meringue to combine evenly.
06 -
Fold in the vanilla extract thoroughly to incorporate flavor.
07 -
If using, fold the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the meringue gently.
08 -
Scoop or pipe the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2.5 centimeters apart.
09 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes until the meringues are dry to the touch.
10 -
Turn off the oven and allow the cookies to cool inside with the door slightly ajar to dry completely.
11 -
Once cooled fully, store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness.