Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
- Whipped cream and additional nutmeg for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Serving glasses
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until well combined.
2. Add milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt to the saucepan and whisk until combined.
3. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in bourbon or rum (if using).
5. Pour the mixture into a mixing bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Before serving, whisk the chilled mixture until smooth.
8. Pour the egg nog into serving glasses and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours or overnight
Temperature:
Cook over low heat
Serving size:
Makes about 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream.
- You can use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice instead of just nutmeg and cinnamon.
- You can use brandy or cognac instead of bourbon or rum.
Variations:
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
- Make a spiced version by adding ginger, cloves, and cardamom to the mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the egg yolks and sugar together well to prevent lumps.
- Stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent it from curdling.
- Chill the mixture for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover egg nog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat egg nog in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve egg nog in festive glasses and garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Garnishes:
Whipped cream and nutmeg
Pairings:
Egg nog pairs well with holiday cookies, gingerbread, and fruitcake.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve egg nog as a dessert or alongside a cheese plate.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture curdles while cooking, remove it from heat and whisk vigorously until it comes back together.
- If the egg nog is too thick, whisk in a little more milk or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the egg nog to a safe temperature of 160°F to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
- Store leftover egg nog in the refrigerator and discard any that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
Egg nog is a traditional holiday drink that originated in Europe in the 17th century. It was originally made with milk, eggs, and sherry, and was often served as a dessert.
Flavor profiles:
Egg nog is rich, creamy, and sweet, with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve egg nog as a festive holiday drink or as a dessert after a holiday meal.
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Taste: Creamy, Rich, Sweet, Nutmeg, Vanilla, Nutmeg-Spiced, Vanilla-Scented