Real proper custard

Ingredients 570ml/1 pint milk 55ml/2fl oz single cream 1 vanilla pod or ½ tsp vanilla extract 4 eggs, yolks only 30g/1oz caster sugar 2 level tsp cornflour Preparation method Bring the milk, cream and vanilla pod to simmering point slowly over a low heat. Remove the vanilla pod (wash the vanilla pod, dry and store in jar with caster sugar to make vanilla sugar). Whisk the yolks, sugar and cornflour together in a bowl until well blended. Pour the hot milk and cream on to the eggs and sugar, whisking all the time with a balloon whisk. Return to the pan, (add vanilla extract if using) and over a low heat gently stir with a wooden spatula until thickened. Pour the custard into a jug and serve at once. To keep hot, stand the jug in a pan of hot water and cover the top with cling film to prevent skin forming.