Eggnog: The Christmas beverage that originated as a potion for cold and flu 

Eggnog, as some of you would be aware of, is a holiday classic. It’s a rich and creamy drink made of milk and eggs that people in Canada, the USA and some European countries enjoy during Christmas. Alcohol is a key ingredient in the recipe of the eggnog. However, it can be relished without putting any alcohol in it. Would you like to know where it came from, and how it evolved into the eggnog we know today? Well, the history of eggnog is a rich and fascinating one that dates back to medieval Europe. Over time, this beverage has made its way around the world, with each culture putting its own twist on the classic recipe.  

The origin story 
The origins of eggnog are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have originated in medieval Europe. Back then, a drink called posset, which was made by curdling milk with wine or ale, was popular for treating cold or flu. Eggnog is likely to have evolved from this drink as people started adding eggs and spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon to posset. As for the name ‘eggnog,’ there are a few different theories. Some believe it comes from the Old English word ‘nog,’ which means a strong beer, while others suggest it comes from ‘noggin,’ a small cup used in the 16th century. But regardless of its etymology, one thing is for sure: Eggnog has stood the test of time! 

Eggnog becomes a Christmas tradition 
During the 1700s, eggnog crossed the Atlantic to reach America, where it quickly became a popular drink among the wealthy. In fact, even George Washington, the first president of the USA, was rumoured to have been a fan. It’s believed that he even had his own eggnog recipe that included rye whiskey, rum and sherry! This festive drink was commonly served at Christmas parties and was considered a symbol of wealth and status. Over time, common people also started drinking eggnog on Christmas eve and it became a Christmas tradition. While eggnog was often made without alcohol, every region added its own twist to the recipe. However, Washington’s recipe seems to have been the most popular one, with tales of its potency spanning generations! However, historians now believe that the recipe attributed to the first president was actually a 19th-century creation rather than one from the Washington family's archive. Regardless of its true origins, there’s no denying that eggnog has become an iconic holiday drink enjoyed by many! 

Eggnogs around the world 
As already mentioned, eggnog has become a global drink, with variations seen across countries. In Mexico, the drink is called rompope, and it's not just eggs, milk and spices. They add rum or brandy to give it a kick! Meanwhile, in Puerto Rico, the festive drink is known as coquito and features creamy coconut milk as the key ingredient. In Britain, the posset is still enjoyed! But it’s not just these countries that have adopted eggnog as their own. In Poland, Jewish communities have long enjoyed a drink called kogel mogel, which is essentially a mix of egg yolks, sugar and brandy. In Germany, eierlikör, a homemade egg liquor, is a popular drink during the holiday season. And in Peru, they add a twist to eggnog using their own brandy, pisco.