Cardamom Mexican Vanilla Pudding with Bean Paste

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups whole milk (600 ml)
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (24 g)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
• 1 tbsp VanillaGoods Mexican vanilla bean paste (15 ml)
• 0.5 tsp ground cardamom (1 g)

Instructions

1. 1. Flavor note: Add the cardamom with the other dry flavorings; a quick toast in a dry pan deepens its aroma.
2. 2. In a saucepan off the heat, whisk the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks with a splash of the milk until smooth and lump-free.
3. 3. Warm the remaining milk with the vanilla until it steams, then whisk it slowly into the yolk mixture.
4. 4. Set over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens and comes to a gentle bubble, about 5 minutes; it should mound softly on the whisk.
5. 5. Off the heat, whisk in the butter until the pudding looks glossy and smooth.
6. 6. Pour into serving dishes, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin, and chill until cold and set, about 2 hours.