Custard

Description: Custard is a British institution! Sponge puddings and crumbles just wouldn't be the same without it! This will make a custard of a pouring consistency. IMPORTANT: In order to have a smooth (not lumpy) custard, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan, and stir constantly! If you have to walk away from the stove, remove saucepan from heat. Another delicious find from Great British Cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of the milk with the cornstarch in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
2. When the cornstarch is dissolved, slowly add the rest of the milk and sugar, and cook over moderate heat until the sauce starts to thicken and comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat.
4. In a small bowl, beat egg yolks with a fork.
5. Take a cup of the sauce, and slowly add to the eggs, beating briskly as you pour.
6. Return the egg/sauce mixture to the saucepan, stirring into the hot sauce.
7. Bring back to a boil, stirring constantly.
8. Remove from heat, and add the vanilla extract.
9. Pour custard into a jug or pitcher, and serve.
10. Tip: To prevent custard forming a skin as it cools, cover jug with plastic wrap.