BIRD'S CUSTARD POWDER

The original homemade custard, Bird's Custard Powder is a quick and easy way to make traditional British custard on the fly. This is the original thickening agent of custard invented by Alfred Bird in 1837 because his wife was allergic to eggs. Simply mix with sugar and milk and heat to a boil then serve alone or over your favorite pudding!

INGREDIENTS:

Cornflour, salt, color: annatto; flavoring. May contain milk.

DIRECTIONS:

How to make delicious Bird's Custard: To make 1 pint (568 ml): On the Hob: 1. Put 2 tablespoons (35 g) of custard powder and 1-2 tablespoons (15 g-35 g) of sugar in a basin. 2. Mix into a smooth paste with a little (approx. 2 tablespoons) milk taken from 1 pint (568 ml). 3. Heat the remaining milk to nearly boiling and pour onto the custard mix, stirring well. 4. Return to the saucepan and bring to the boil over a gentle heat, stirring continuously.

In the microwave (750 w): 1. Follow steps 1 & 2 above. 2. Add the remaining milk and cook on full power for 6 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking period. 3. Leave to stand for 1 minute before serving. *NB. All cooking appliances vary. These are guidelines only. Cooking time will differ for a lower or higher wattage microwave oven. Handy hints: Bird's custard powder can be made up with skimmed, semi-skimmed or full cream milk. The thickness of the custard can be varied by using a little more or less milk as you prefer. Sugar can be adjusted to suit your taste. For perfect Bird's custard; Ensure you have a smooth paste; Add the hot milk to the custard paste: Stir continuously.

Store in a cool dry place.