Homemade custard

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Split the vanilla pod in half and scrape the seeds out with the point of a knife. Put both the pod and seeds in a medium pan with the milk and cream. Bring to the boil slowly then take off the heat and leave to stand.

2. Step 2

   Lightly whisk the egg yolks and caster sugar (and cornflour if you are using it) until pale and thick.

3. Step 3

   Whisk in the vanilla-infused milk – fish the pod out first – then wipe out the pan (to get rid of any milk that has caught on the base) and strain the custard mixture back in. Put it back on a medium heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon. Don’t let it overheat or boil or the egg will curdle. Serve with your favourite pudding.