BURNT CARAMEL ICE CREAM

Steps:

• Stir 3/4 cup sugar and 3 tablespoons water in heavy medium saucepan over medium heat until sugar melts. Increase heat to high and boil without stirring until mixture turns dark amber, occasionally swirling pan and brushing down sides with wet pastry brush, about 7 minutes. Immediately add milk (mixture will bubble vigorously). Add cream and salt. Scrape in seeds from vanilla bean; add bean. Bring mixture to boil, stirring to dissolve any caramel bits. Let cool 10 minutes. Whisk yolks and remaining 1/4 cup sugar in medium bowl. Gradually whisk in hot milk mixture. Return mixture to same saucepan. Stir over medium heat until slightly thickened and candy thermometer registers 180°F, about 6 minutes (do not boil). Strain custard into medium bowl. Cover and chill until cold, at least 4 hours. DO AHEAD Custard can be made 1 day ahead. Keep chilled.
• Process custard in ice cream maker according to manufacturer's instructions. Transfer to container; cover and freeze. DO AHEAD Can be made 4 days ahead. Keep frozen.