Method
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Dissolve baking soda in hot water. Add to batter along with salt. Stir in flour, chocolate chips, and nuts. Drop large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans. Bake for about 10mins in the preheated oven, or until edges are nicely browned. Serve warm or cool with tea/coffee or as a dessert with whipped fresh cream.