Considered by many to be a festive wintertime classic, eggnog has a long and interesting history. In the United States, it is traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday seasons. Eggnog can be both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and its flavor is often enhanced by the addition of nutmeg. Whether you prefer a non-alcoholic version or a spirited one, learning about the history and evolution of eggnog can help you create the perfect eggnog recipe for your holiday celebrations.
The Origin of the Name
The word “eggnog” may be derived from the term “noggin”, an old English word for a mug or a small cup used to serve liquor. Another theory suggests that the term eggnog is a combination of two words “egg” and “grog” (Old English word for strong beer).
Overview of Traditional Eggnog
Traditional eggnog recipes usually contain milk and eggs, along with cream, sugar, and some type of spirit, like brandy, bourbon, rum, or sherry. Cognac and Madeira are sometimes used as well. In the United States, recipes often include cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum. Some recipes call for a combination of cream and milk, while others call for only one or the other.
In the United States, eggnog is traditionally served during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday seasons, as well as Thanksgiving. It is also served at Halloween, Mardi Gras, and on St. Patrick’s Day.
A Brief History of Eggnog
The eggnog we enjoy today is believed to be based on medieval and Renaissance-era British and European drinks, like posset and lambswool. These drinks were made with hot milk and eggs, sometimes mixed with beer, wine or ale, as well as spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom. In the United States, eggnog was likely first consumed in the late 1700s. Recipes for eggnog flourished in America during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
“Eggnog is a product derived from the ancient customs of the British Isles, carried to the Southern states by the early colonists and adapted to their climate and resources” – The Encyclopedia of American Food and Drink, John Mariani
At the time, the ingredients for eggnog were not readily available to the masses, so it was a festive holiday treat that was both expensive and luxurious. As the years passed, production methods improved and the ingredients became more affordable, making eggnog more widely popular.
Non-Alcoholic Eggnog
Today, eggnog can be found in many forms. In addition to traditional alcoholic versions, there are also non-alcoholic eggnog recipes that are made with milk, eggs, cream, egg whites, and sugar, as well as nutmeg and other spices. Non-alcoholic versions are often sold in grocery stores and are consumed by people of all ages.
For those looking for a traditional, alcoholic eggnog recipe, there are still plenty of recipes available. These recipes usually call for mixing eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spirits, such as brandy, rum, whiskey, or bourbon. Some recipes also call for the addition of nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices, as well as vanilla extract, chocolate, or whipped cream.
Conclusion
Eggnog has come a long way from its humble beginnings. From its British and European forebears to its modern-day recipe variations, eggnog is a festive and beloved holiday tradition. Whether you prefer the traditional eggnog recipe, a non-alcoholic version, or something that falls somewhere in between, it’s easy to find the perfect eggnog recipe to enjoy with friends and family throughout the holiday season.
Sources:
The Encyclopedia of American Food and Drink. John Mariani.