Filipino Milk Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 Lmilk
• 100 gsugar
• 40 gstarch
• 1 tspvanilla

Method

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 liter of milk and 100 grams of sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves. This will ensure a smooth texture in your pudding without any gritty sugar bits.
2. In a small bowl, mix 40 grams of starch with a small amount of the warm milk mixture to create a slurry. This step prevents lumps from forming when the starch is added to the hot milk. Gradually pour the slurry back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to incorporate it evenly.
3. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously. As the mixture heats, it will begin to thicken. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of the spoon and leaves a trail when you run your finger through it.
4. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla. The vanilla will enhance the flavor of the pudding, adding a fragrant aroma. Ensure the vanilla is fully mixed in for a consistent taste throughout.
5. Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Allow it to cool slightly at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill the pudding until it is set and firm to the touch, which typically takes a few hours.
6. Before serving, you can optionally sprinkle some sugar on top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize it for a crispy finish. Serve the pudding chilled, allowing the creamy texture and subtle sweetness to shine. This dish is perfect for sharing at the table, embodying the communal spirit of Filipino home cooking.