Caramelized Milk

Instructions

1. In a heavy 4-quart saucepan, mix together the milk, sugar, vanilla bean (if using), and baking soda and bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking.
3. As it begins to thicken, stir constantly and cook until caramel-colored and very thick; this will take about 1 hour.
4. If using vanilla extract, add it at this point.
5. Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.
6. Variation:
7. Heres how Borden, one manufacturer of sweetened, condensed milk, suggests making dulce de leche: Pour one 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk into a pie plate.
8. Cover with aluminum foil, place in a shallow pan of hot water, and bake in a preheated 425F oven until thick and caramel-colored, about 1 hour.
9. Remove the foil and let cool.
10. Refrigerate before using: Makes about 1 cup.