National Eggnog Day – December 24th
Every day is a national “insert word here” day. This series looks at holidays and how to make it a healthy celebration!
WHAT IS EGGNOG?
The official holiday drink, eggnog is made from milk, sugar, spices, cream, and eggs. Liquor is optional, and the drink is served chilled.
Eggnog is typically available in the grocery store near the milk from October to January. You can find eggnog flavored items now too such as ice cream, coffees, teas, baked goods, and puddings at your grocery store.
Here is an interesting, albeit somewhat old, article about today’s manufacturing of eggnog: https://slate.com/…/eggnog-season-why-dont-they-sell-it…
HISTORY
Although the origin of eggnog is debated most agree that it originated in England. It may have been medieval England, it may have been later in East Anglia.
The first time the term was printed was in the March 26 issue of the “New-Jersey Journal” in 1788, referring to a man enjoying a glass of eggnog.
As far as the origins of the holiday, we are unsure of when National Eggnog Day was started.
RECIPE
Love eggnog but not all of the fat and sugar? Here’s a lightened up, easy recipe.
Ingredients
- 6 large egg yolk
- 1/3 cup maple syrup, pure
- 3 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Whisk eggs, maple syrup, and milk in a medium saucepan, and then place on a burner over medium heat.
2. Whisk regularly until the mixture reaches 160° F or so and coats the back of a metal spoon slightly.
3. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes. Then mix in the spices and vanilla.
4. Chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Whisk well before serving.
Recipe adapted from: https://www.superhealthykids.com/healthy-eggnog-recipe/
HOW TO CELEBRATE
Post your eggnog celebration on social media with the hashtags #NationalEggnogDay and #innerathleteus
Sources: Nationaldaycalendar, Superhealthykids, Syracuse, slate.com