Dulce de Leche made from milk, sugar and vanilla

Ingredients for 1 servings:

• 500 ml milk
• 200 g sugar
• 1 vanilla pod(s), pulp thereof, or 1 packet of vanilla sugar

Instructions

Working time approx. 5 minutes; Cooking/baking time approx. 55 minutes; Total time approx. 1 hour

Combine 500 ml of milk and 200 g of sugar in a large saucepan or non-stick pan. Add the seeds of one vanilla pod or vanilla sugar. Bring the milk and sugar mixture to a boil, then reduce to about 2/3 of the heat. Simmer the milk and sugar mixture for 45 to 55 minutes and reduce, stirring regularly every 5 minutes. After about 45 minutes, the color will turn caramel and the consistency will become creamy. Stay by the pan, stirring constantly, and pay attention to when the right consistency is reached. Use a small teaspoon to run a small amount diagonally down a cold plate. If the dulce de leche only flows slowly, then the consistency is right. Please note that the dulce de leche will thicken further as it cools. Then transfer to twist-off jars rinsed with boiling water. This amount is sufficient for about 1 medium-sized jar. Shelf life is at least 2 weeks. Variations: Just before transferring, mix in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts, or during the Christmas season, mix in 1 teaspoon of gingerbread spice or similar. You can use fresh whole milk, UHT milk (1.5% or 3.5% fat), or lactose-free milk.