Did you know that Eggnog originates in England? This festive feast, that is nowadays so synonymous with our cousins across the pond, does in fact owe its culinary heritage to this fair  isle.

In the 14th century a drink comprised of hot milk curdled with ale called Posset was enjoyed. Over the years eggs and alcohol were added, creating the festive Eggnog we know and love today. Of course this festive feast is far more popular and a staple of the festivities in the USA, but it is gaining popularity again once more here in the UK. Why not add it to your menu this christmas?

Eggnog can be prepared several ways, but my preference is the method which involves cooking the mixture. Bear in mind though, there remains an element of the recipe that still involves raw eggs.

Eggnog Recipe

Here’s a quick run down of how to put together a truly tasty Christmas treat:

Typical serving for 8

• 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

Step by Step

Here’s how to put it together

• Step 1 ~ In your saucepan, combine the milk, cream, cinnamon, vanilla bean, vanilla seeds, and nutmeg. Bring to the boil over a medium heat, or at least until you see bubbles forming around the outside of the pan. Once boiling, remove from the heat and set to one side, allowing the ingredients to soak.

• Step 2 ~ In a large bowl or a stand mixer if you have one, beat the egg yolks and sugar until they are combined and thick ribbons form when the whisk is lifted. Then, Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to mix until all the mixture is combined and smooth. Now it’s time to add the bourbon or rum,whichever you opted for, and stir.

• Step 3 ~ Refrigerate your mixture overnight or if you are saving it for a festive occasion, you can store your mixture in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Step 4 ~ When you are ready to serve, beat the egg whites in a large bowl or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Gently fold your egg white mixture into the eggnog until combined. Serve to you holiday guest  with a smile and ideally, garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Merry Christmas