The History of Boiled Custard and Eggnog
Boiled custard and eggnog are two traditional holiday drinks that have been enjoyed for centuries. Boiled custard, also known as crème anglaise, is a French dessert sauce made from milk, sugar, and eggs. Eggnog, on the other hand, is a drink made from milk, eggs, sugar, and often alcohol.
The Origin of Boiled Custard
Boiled custard has been around since the 17th century and was a popular dessert sauce in France. It was served alongside desserts like fruit tarts and cakes. When the recipe was brought to America, it became a popular holiday drink.
The Origin of Eggnog
Eggnog has a more complicated origin story. Some historians believe it was first created in medieval Britain as a drink made from hot milk and ale. Others believe it was brought to America by colonists and was made with rum, which was readily available in the Caribbean.
The Ingredients of Boiled Custard and Eggnog
Boiled custard and eggnog share many of the same ingredients, but there are some differences.
The Ingredients of Boiled Custard
Boiled custard is made from milk, sugar, and eggs. It is often flavored with vanilla or nutmeg.
The Ingredients of Eggnog
Eggnog is made from milk, sugar, eggs, and often alcohol. Rum is the traditional alcohol used in eggnog, but brandy or whiskey can also be used. It is also flavored with nutmeg or cinnamon.
The Preparation of Boiled Custard and Eggnog
Boiled custard and eggnog are prepared differently, but the basic steps are similar.
The Preparation of Boiled Custard
To make boiled custard, you heat milk and sugar in a saucepan until it comes to a simmer. In a separate bowl, you beat egg yolks until they are light and frothy. You slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. Then, you return the mixture to the saucepan and heat it until it thickens.
The Preparation of Eggnog
To make eggnog, you whisk together egg yolks and sugar until they are light and frothy. In a separate saucepan, you heat milk, cream, and nutmeg until it comes to a simmer. You slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. Then, you stir in alcohol (if using) and chill the mixture before serving.
The Taste of Boiled Custard and Eggnog
Boiled custard and eggnog have similar flavors, but there are some differences.
The Taste of Boiled Custard
Boiled custard has a rich, creamy flavor with hints of vanilla or nutmeg. It is sweet but not overly so.
The Taste of Eggnog
Eggnog has a creamy, sweet flavor with a slight hint of alcohol. The nutmeg or cinnamon adds a warm, spicy flavor to the drink.
The Variations of Boiled Custard and Eggnog
Boiled custard and eggnog can be customized with different flavors and ingredients.
The Variations of Boiled Custard
Boiled custard can be flavored with different extracts like almond or coconut. You can also add a splash of brandy or rum to the sauce for a boozy twist.
The Variations of Eggnog
Eggnog can be made with different types of alcohol like whiskey or brandy. You can also add flavors like chocolate or coffee to the drink for a unique twist.
The Verdict: Are Boiled Custard and Eggnog the Same?
While boiled custard and eggnog share many of the same ingredients and similar preparation methods, they are not the same. Boiled custard is a dessert sauce, while eggnog is a drink. Eggnog also contains alcohol, while boiled custard does not. However, both are delicious holiday treats that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
