Boiled Custard

Directions

1. 1
   Heat 1 1/2 cups of the milk in a double boiler until a skim forms (just before boiling) on the top of the milk.
2. 2
   Sift together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a mixing bowl.
3. 3
   Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup milk.
4. 4
   Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
5. 5
   Whisking constantly, slowly stream 1/4 cup hot milk into the eggs.
6. 6
   Slowly pour the egg-milk mixture back into the double boiler, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
7. 7
   Stir in the sugar mixture and continue cooking the custard until it thickens, about 15 minutes, stirring constantly (see Note).
8. 8
   Stir in the vanilla.
9. 9
   Dont be turned off by the term custard.
10. 10
    This is delicious served cold.
11. 11
    Combining hot milk and eggs is a delicate process, and lumps may appear even if you are very careful.
12. 12
    If lumps do appear, strain the custard through a fine sieve.