French Vanilla Ice Cream

Prep time : --- 10 minutes ---Cook time : --- 15 minutes --Makes 1 quart --8 servings

1 -3/4 ----------------cups milk

2 -1/4 ----------------cups heavy cream

1 -----------------------cup sugar

1 ------------------------vanilla bean , split lengthwiae

1/4 ---------------------teaspoon salt

6 ------------------------egg yolks

1) In a large saucepan over moderate heat , scald milk and cream with 1/2 cup of sugar , the vanilla bean and salt just until small bubbles appear .

2) In a medium-size bowl , whisk egg yolks and remaining 1/2 cup of sugar . Gradually whisk in a little milk mixture into yolk mixture , then pour back into pan . Cook over low heat , whisking constantly , until mixture coats a spoon --- about 15 minutes .

3) Remove from heat and cool to room temperature . Scrape seeds from vanilla bean into custard ; discard the pod . Refrigerate custard , covered , until cold --- 1 to 2 hours .

4) Tranfer to an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer's directions .

Young and old kids alike will love this sweet goodness .