At Christmas, we immerse ourselves in memories, those of childhood, of family and sometimes in reminiscences of a distant past. Because Christmas rhymes with tradition, we seek to rediscover the flavors of yesteryear in the menus for December 24 and 25. Eggnog is the perfect drink for this moment.
A legendary recipe
In the Middle Ages, eggnog was already consumed during end-of-year celebrations. This drink, generally served hot, is prepared with cow’s milk, cream, sugar and egg yolk (the moment when the hen invites itself). There are also versions with brown alcohols (whiskey, rum or cognac) that you can offer instead of a hot toddy. We flavor everything with Christmas spices: cinnamon or nutmeg to make the magic happen. In “Madame Bovary” by Gustave Flaubert, the drink is used for invigorating purposes by Monsieur Homais, the village apothecary. Today, eggnog is recognized for its contributions in vitamins A, D, B12 and calcium. In short, the perfect drink to get you through winter! On Instagram, @Astridcookbooks invites us to travel to 1896 with a version flavored with orange blossom, without dairy products. This version without milk or cream has other health benefits other than calcium thanks to the egg yolk (to be taken organic) and the virtues of hot water which would eliminate toxins and facilitate digestion. Essential after a Christmas feast!
The eggnog recipe like in 1896
Ingredients
1 cup of water
2 organic eggs
2 tbsp. tablespoon of sugar
1 tbsp. tablespoon of orange blossom water
1 pinch of salt
Preparation
Boil the equivalent of a cup of water.
Break two egg yolks with 2 tbsp. tablespoon of sugar, 1 tbsp. tablespoons of orange blossom water and 1 pinch of salt. While the water begins to boil, whisk the eggs vigorously until the yolks begin to whiten slightly and gain volume.
When the desired texture is reached, pour boiling water over it. Stir lightly.
Serve hot.
This version without milk or cream can be revisited by replacing the water with milk while retaining the orange blossom.
Here, the classic recipe with milk and honey: eggnog.
