No Fluff Tapioca Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   In a heavy bottomed sauce pan combine 1 cup milk with tapioca pearls; let soak for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2
   After soaking is done, whisk in egg, salt, sugar and remaining milk and vanilla bean (if using) scraping the paste with a knife and throw in the pod (if using vanilla extract add at the very end after pudding is complete).
3. 3
   Over medium heat bring mixture barely to a boil (about 15 minutes) stirring constantly. Be very careful to keep stirring so not to scorch it. If it scorches it's no good, throw out and start over.
4. 4
   When boiling reduce heat and let mixture fall to a simmer. Continue stirring until the tapioca is fully cooked and the pudding is thickened. This could take 20 to 45 minutes--watch your tapioca it will tell you when it is done. It will swell up and become almost entirely translucent. Taste often for doneness. I like my tapioca a little chewy.
5. 5
   When finished remove from heat and add vanilla extract if using. Also if using the cinnamon/nutmeg add now, let cool a bit and enjoy.
6. 6
   This is best served warm, but good cold too.