Thirsty Thursday - Egg Nog

Nothing brings more holiday memories to mind than when sitting before the fire, and the Christmas tree, with a cup of eggnog. My mother used to celebrate each new Christmas with this delicious drink, and I have continued the tradition. I nearly always serve non-alcoholic, but on occasion, I have known to tip a wee bit o' whiskey into it!

Eggnog

Eggnog is a minefield of calories -- from the heavy cream to the sugar to its main ingredient, eggs. Weighing in at around 340 calories per cup, with 19 grams of fat, this is one holiday drink that’s better left at the bar -- unless you make some serious changes. First, skip the heavy cream and use skim milk and fat-free half-and-half instead. Egg substitutes are just as good as the real deal, and a single packet of artificial sweetener can add all the flavor of a teaspoon of calorie-heavy sugar. And, since you’ve carved off the calories in all the right places -- down to about 60 calories per serving -- feel free to add 1/4 cup of brandy or rum for a little kick, or spice it up naturally with a shaving of fresh nutmeg.


Makes 4 servings



Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups skim milk

1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half

1/2 cup pasteurized egg substitute

1 tsp vanilla

1 packet artificial sweetener

1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)

Nutmeg (for garnish)


Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker or blender, or whisk to blend. Serve cold or over ice and garnish with nutmeg.



Per serving (without brandy): 64 calories, 7 g protein, 8 g carbohydrate, 0.5 g fat, 0.3 g saturated fat, 3 mg cholesterol, 0 g fiber, 144 mg sodium. Calories from fat: 7%.