Eggnog With A Greek Twist

Bring a Mediterranean twist to the classic holiday eggnog with flavors inspired by Greece! This creamy and aromatic drink combines traditional eggnog ingredients with the distinct taste of Greek honey and mastiha.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs (separated)
• 3/4 cup Greek honey (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup mastiha liqueur (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
• Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Heat the Base:
   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, Greek honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is just about to simmer (do not boil). Remove from heat.
2. Whisk the Yolks:
   In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become pale and creamy. Gradually add a ladle of the warm milk mixture to the yolks while whisking continuously to temper them. Slowly add the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
3. Cook the Eggnog:
   Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the mastiha liqueur (if using) and vanilla extract.
4. Beat the Whites:
   In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cooled eggnog mixture for a frothy texture.

Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 2 hours. Before serving, give it a gentle stir. Pour into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of Greek honey.