Rich Custard Recipe

Directions:

1. Whisk together 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a 2-quart heavy saucepan. Whisk in 1/4 cup milk until smooth, then stir in remaining milk and zest. Bring to a boil over moderate heat, whisking frequently.
2. Have ready a bowl filled with ice and cold water. Whisk together yolks and remaining 1/2 cup sugar in a large bowl. Gradually whisk in hot milk mixture, then transfer custard to saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture registers 170°F on an instant-read thermometer, 3 to 4 minutes. (Do not boil.)
3. Immediately pour custard through a fine sieve into a metal bowl set in ice water. Stir in vanilla. Cool, stirring frequently.
4. Cooks' note: ·Custard can be made 3 days ahead and chilled, its surface covered with wax paper and bowl covered with plastic wrap.