Eggnog
I took an informal survey this weekend. Everyone hates eggnog. I mean, they don’t just dislike it, they hate it. They make faces and say things about it being thick and having eggs in it and what’s with the name? “Eggnog” does not sound appetizing. Who made this drink and why do we drink it?
I don’t know if I like eggnog or not because I have not had it as an adult. I had the nonalcoholic version as a kid and thought it was weird. I admit I’m curious now, so I’m thinking of making some.
It’s an old drink. Apparently, it is traced back to medieval Europe. According to Wikipedia, “the drink adopted the “nog” part of its name from the word “noggin”, a Middle English phrase used to describe a small, wooden, carved mug used to serve alcohol. Another name for this British drink was Egg Flip.”
And:
“Yet another story is that the term derived from the name “egg-and-grog”, a common Colonial term used to describe rum. Eventually the term was shortened to “egg’n'grog”, then “eggnog”.”
Since milk and eggs were not wasted on drinks in those days, it must have been a special drink for the time, and probably only consumed by the upper crust. Not so today, however.
Anyway, I’ll give Alton Brown’s version a try, although Martha Stewart’s is probably good too.
Alton Brown’s Eggnog
Ingredients:
- 4 egg yolks
1/3 c sugar, plus 1 Tbs
1 pint whole milk
1 c heavy cream
3 oz bourbon
1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
4 egg whites
Direction:
In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until the sugar completely dissolves. Add the milk, cream, bourbon and nutmeg and whisk to combine.
Place the egg whites in a different bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks using the whisk attachment. With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Whisk the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.
Hmmm, curious. You know, it sounds like it could be good.
What do you think? Do you like eggnog?
It’s such a comforting, end of year drink to me. The only downside is that it’s really rich, but who cares… just don’t down the full liter.