Maraschino Cherry Rice Pudding

Directions

• In a large heavy saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, butter and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook for 15 minutes or until thick and creamy, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat. Stir a small amount of hot mixture into egg yolks; return all to the pan, stirring constantly.
• Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Remove from the heat. Stir in cherries and vanilla. Cool for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to dessert dishes. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
• In a small heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, cherry juice and salt. Bring to a boil.
• Meanwhile, beat egg white and cream of tartar in a large heat-proof bowl until stiff peaks form. With mixer running on high speed, carefully add hot syrup in a slow steady stream. Continue beating until soft peaks form. Stir in extract. Dollop over pudding. Garnish with cherries if desired.