Dulce De Leche

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the milk, sugar, vanilla bean and seeds in a large, 4-quart saucepan and place over medium heat B
2. 2
   Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. 3
   Once the sugar has dissolved, add the baking soda and stir to combine.
4. 4
   Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered at a simmer.
5. 5
   Stir occasionally.
6. 6
   Continue to cook for 1 hour.
7. 7
   Remove the vanilla bean after 1 hour and continue to cook until the mixture is a dark caramel color and has reduced to about 1 cup, approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
8. 8
   Strain the mixture through a strainer.