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| Christmas comes once a year and what better way to make good cheer than to serve chilled eggnog. Eggnog is one holiday treat that has been a tradition for many years, and each season both family and friends alike delight in this smooth, delicious drink. With just a quart or two of delicious eggnog on hand, you will discover that serving suggestions for eggnog are virtually endless. Early references indicate that eggnog is an American drink with English ancestry. This holiday beverage has been in existence for many centuries under many names and guises. In the past, eggnog was made with rum as a main ingredient; and since the word "grog" is associated with rum, the term eggnog evolved through a combination of words. Eggnog then came from combining the words egg 'n grog. Eggnog has long been known for its smooth consistency and delicate flavor. It contains beaten eggs, sugar, milk or cream and flavoring and cooked over low heat until the mixture coats a metal spoon (160 degrees). Although eggnog is a traditional drink served at festive occasions during the Christmas holidays, it is also appearing on other menus throughout the year. Eggnog is not only delicious but also nutritious. Made with eggs and milk, it is a rich protein drink that provides many of the vitamins and minerals needed in the daily diet. Many are surprised to learn that eggnog is served year-round to children and convalescents who are suffering from malnutrition or digestive problems. Because of its high protein content, eggnog can be used by those persons who are restricted to liquid diets. Here's an idea that adds vitamin C to the already nutritious drink. Just add one 6-ounce can of frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed) and 2 cups of milk to 2 cups eggnog. There you have it - a quick, simple and tempting breakfast to serve Christmas morning, when family members are too busy opening packages to take time to eat! This holiday season, why not make your own eggnog? You probably have most of the ingredients on your shelf or in the refrigerator, and the process is quite simple and economical, too! When making eggnog in your home, first be sure to use only the finest ingredients available. Whether you are preparing eggnog for a party or a single serving, use fresh eggs, real vanilla extract and fresh milk or cream. By using the finest ingredients, you can be sure your final product will be flavorful. Superb eggnog depends on quality ingredients. Eggnog is one drink that is best when served chilled. To be certain that the eggnog you serve will be good and cold, prepare the eggnog 4 to 24 hours ahead and store in the refrigerator. When serving eggnog in a punch bowl for extended periods of time, arrange your punch bowl on a bed on a bed of ice to be sure the eggnog will remain chilled until the last cup disappears! A variety of serving suggestions has been developed for eggnog. Leftover eggnog is a natural for sauces. Pour over steamed pudding, pound cake or fruitcake. It can also add a touch of richness to any vegetable. Another quick and easy way to use leftover eggnog is to freeze it into ice trays, later serving them as an after school snack. The possibilities for eggnog are virtually endless. During this holiday season, why not "create" a tradition by making your own eggnog to serve with each dish you prepare! |
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