Dulce de Leche

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

Stap voor stap

1. 1

   Combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, and baking soda in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.

   Tip van de kok: Ensure the pot is large enough to prevent boiling over, as the milk will expand.

2. 2

   Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

   Ongeveer 5 min

3. 3

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and maintain a very gentle simmer. Do not cover the pot.

   Tip van de kok: The key is a slow, steady simmer; too high heat will scorch the milk.

4. 4

   Continue to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring frequently, especially towards the end, to prevent sticking and burning.

   Ongeveer 2 uur

   Tip van de kok: The mixture will gradually thicken and turn a rich caramel color. Scrape the bottom and sides often.

5. 5

   The dulce de leche is ready when it has thickened to a consistency similar to condensed milk and coats the back of a spoon.

   Tip van de kok: Keep in mind it will thicken further as it cools.

6. 6

   Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.

7. 7

   Pour the dulce de leche into a clean glass jar and let it cool completely to room temperature.

   Ongeveer 1 uur

   Tip van de kok: Stir it occasionally as it cools to achieve a smoother texture.