Join Aaron Goldfarb, a cocktail connoisseur and author, as he shares his love for eggnog, delving into its festive legacy and cultural significance. Discover the nuances of crafting the perfect batch, from ingredient selection to aging techniques. Aaron offers tips for achieving that silky texture and discusses the rise of homemade eggnog. With humor, he also explores variations using exotic ingredients and the unforgettable experience of serving this seasonal drink. Whether you prefer bourbon or cognac, get ready to elevate your holiday gatherings!
Eggnog, a holiday staple in the U.S., has origins dating back to the 18th century and thrived particularly in the southern states.
Using high-quality ingredients, such as local eggs and demerara sugar, is crucial for achieving the ideal flavor and texture in homemade eggnog.
Aging eggnog enhances its flavor and safety, traditional methods often involve storage for varying lengths of time to develop complexity.
Deep dives
Introduction to Eggnog
Eggnog is primarily made from eggs, dairy, sugar, and alcohol, creating a rich, creamy beverage that has become a holiday staple in the United States. Its history dates back to the 18th century, and while it originally gained popularity in the mid-Atlantic region, it soon became associated with Christmas celebrations, particularly in the southern states. The drink offers a versatile base, allowing for a range of spirits to be used, including rum, brandy, and bourbon. A humorous cultural contrast exists between traditional homemade eggnog and the mass-produced versions often found today, with many people favoring the convenience of store-bought eggnog rather than making it from scratch.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Using high-quality, fresh ingredients is crucial when preparing eggnog. This includes selecting the best eggs, ideally from a local source, as they are the foundation of the drink. In addition to eggs, the choice of sugar can impact flavor, with darker sugars like demerara lending greater complexity compared to standard white sugar. Incorporating whole milk and heavy cream in proper proportions is essential for achieving the right texture; using only heavy cream makes for a thick consistency, while using milk alone results in a thin mixture.
Aging Eggnog for Flavor and Safety
Aging eggnog, which is a unique practice, enhances its flavor while also improving its safety. The alcohol content in the eggnog helps to eliminate pathogens, reducing the risk of foodborne illness associated with raw eggs. Historical references show that even spirits like George Washington's eggnog were made in large batches and stored for later consumption, solidifying aging as a traditional method. The process can take anywhere from a week to several years, with the flavor profile evolving over time, often leading to complex and unexpected notes as it matures.
Crafting the Perfect Eggnog
The steps to create eggnog involve beating egg whites to form stiff peaks before incorporating yolks mixed with sugar, followed by milk, cream, and the chosen spirits. This order of preparation ensures a velvety texture and prevents the mixture from becoming too fluffy. Freshly grated nutmeg serves as a classic garnish, adding aromatic qualities to the final presentation. Serving eggnog in an attractive punch bowl elevates the experience, inviting guests to partake in a communal holiday tradition.
Modern Takes and Variations on Eggnog
In recent years, the craft cocktail movement has sparked renewed interest in homemade eggnog, showcasing various adaptations and flavors. Recipes can vary significantly, with some mixologists experimenting with different spirits while maintaining the core ingredients of eggs, dairy, and sugar. The potential for flavorful additions, like spices or unique liquors, allows for personalized takes on the classic recipe, reflecting individual tastes. As more people rediscover the joys of traditional eggnog, it continues to be a cherished holiday drink, reclaiming its spot in festive celebrations.
Cooked or uncooked? Fresh or aged? Bourbon, Cognac, or rum-based? For this festive Cocktail College and the ultimate guide to Eggnog, we're joined by returning guest Aaron Goldfarb, author and VinePair writer at large. Listen on (or read below) to learn Aaron’s batched Eggnog recipe — and don’t forget to like, review, and subscribe!
Aaron Goldfarb’s Eggnog Recipe (serves 12)
Ingredients
- 12 eggs, separated
- 1 cup demerara sugar
- 3-4 cups milk
- 1 16-ounce carton heavy cream
- 12-16 ounces alcohol, such as bourbon, Cognac, and/or aged rum
- Garnish: nutmeg
Directions
1. Beat egg whites to a soft peak and set aside.
2. Separately, mix egg yolks and sugar until sugar is dissolved.
3. Add cream and milk until thoroughly combined.
4. Carefully fold in egg whites then add alcohol.
5. Decant into a punch bowl and ladle into Old Fashioned glasses to serve.