Dulce de Leche

Ingredients

• 1 Lmilk, whole milk; for best results
• 300 gsugar
• 1/4 tspbaking soda, bicarbonate of soda; prevents crystallisation
• 1 tspvanilla extract, added off heat at the end

Method

1. 1

   In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the milk, sugar and baking soda. Cook over the lowest possible heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

2. 2

   Continue cooking over low heat, stirring very frequently, until the mixture has thickened and turned a deep caramel colour, about 1–2 hours.

3. 3

   Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. 4

   Leave to cool, then transfer to a jar. It will thicken further as it cools.