Where did Eggnog come from?

Eggnog is a spiked beverage which is often associated with Christmas season. It’s creamy, it’s boozy and its delicious! Did you know that it is centuries old?

Eggnog has roots back to a 14th century England. In the British medieval time, it's commonly known as "posset", or hot milk beverage with ale. In the 13th century, eggnog-like beverage was also popular among monks, who drank it with eggs and figs. They mix eggs and milk along with spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg (considered as luxury spices in 13th century). Eggnog was also considered as an aristocratic drink and just reserved for elite people. This beverage only gained its approachability when American colonies were formed, when the eggs, milk and rum supplies were plenty. This creamy yumminess became popular and has been a must have indulgence throughout the holiday season. But, why the alcohol? Well, Rum has become a natural ingredient for eggnog to prevent it from spoiling even without refrigeration for days.  

Where did the name come from? Back in the days, the beverage was often served in a wooden cup, also known as a "nog" or "noggin". The ingredient "egg" and "nog" combined, Eggnog. viola!  

Ultimate Eggnog Recipe

The taste of eggnog is full of holiday cheer, creamy and sweet. Here’s a great recipe from Jaime Oliver that everyone will surely love this Christmas season.

Serves 8

Ingredients:

• 3 cups (700ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy or double cream
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds removed
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish
• 5 eggs, separated
• 2/3 (130g) cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (175ml) Bacardi Dark Rum, or bourbon

In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, cinnamon, vanilla bean, vanilla seeds, and nutmeg. Bring to the boil over a medium heat. Once boiling, remove from the heat and allow to steep.

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat egg yolks and sugar until combined and thick ribbons form when the whisk is lifted. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to mix until the mixture is combined and smooth. Add bourbon or rum, and stir. Refrigerate overnight or for up to 3 days.

Before serving, beat the egg whites in a large bowl or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Gently fold into eggnog until combined. Serve and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Eggnog is the best beverage for holiday parties and for spending time with your loved ones cuddled next to your fireplace. Traditionally, this drink is only served during winter and it gives pure comfort to anyone in the coldest season of the year. Bring out those ugly and comfortable sweaters; gather around the fire with creamy eggnog on hand. If you want to make your wine glass or eggnog glass more fun and exciting, why not add some cute wine glass charms to your glasses? Check out some those colorful Christmas wine charms here: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Wine-Glass-Charms-Magnetic/dp/B01M7QLVTY/