Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Gather ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Using a knife and cutting board or a nut chopper, coarsely chop the pecans.
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream the vegetable shortening with the granulated sugar and brown sugar.
Add large eggs, vanilla extract, and Fiori di Sicilia. Beat well.
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to creamed mixture, scraping the bowl as needed.
Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
With a large spoon or cookie scoop, form dough into large walnut-sized balls and space 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake in preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to set for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool. Makes 6-8 dozen.
Notes
*If desired, you may split this recipe in half to make 3-4 dozen cookies.