A Vegan "Eggnog" Recipe

A Christmas party or family get together can become stressed if there are issues with food preferences or dietary restrictions. My mother in law is a vegetarian and does still eat eggs and dairy. However, my sister in law is vegan. This makes many of our traditional and favorite dishes into something that she cannot enjoy. Eggnog in particular was something she could not have is it is made of eggs and dairy. My husband and I started making this "eggnog" several years ago, after trying several different variations, as a way to keep his sister connected and enjoying the festivities. Now, we rarely bother to make or purchase traditional eggnog as we prefer this version. I have also used this version of eggnog for flavoring coffee and for flavoring cookies. The taste is very similar!

If you are a vegan or vegetarian or just have friends or relatives who are vegan, this recipe is a great way to enjoy traditional eggnog without the dairy and eggs. Fast and simple to make, you can serve this either with or without alcohol. The tofu and soy milk should be available in most grocery stores now. If you cannot locate it in the grocery store, a health food store should definitely carry both items. This variation on eggnog is actually very good. I enjoy it myself and think that it is much healthier than the traditional eggnog. This would be a great alternative for someone struggling with high cholesterol or weight issues as well as vegans. This is a lighter version that still has enough resemblance to the original to make you feel like you are drinking eggnog. This Christmas, try something different. Try something healthier. And try to accommodate your friends and relatives who have dietary needs different from your own.

2 10 1/2-oz. packages of soft, silken tofu

16 oz. of vanilla soy milk

1 Tbs. plus 1tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup sugar

2 Tbs. brown sugar

1/4 tsp. ground turmeric

1/2 to 1 c. rum or brandy (optional)

Nutmeg

Makes 8 servings.

In a blender or food processor, combine all of the ingredients except for the nutmeg. Blend thoroughly, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Serve well-chilled and dusted with nutmeg. Serve as you would a traditional eggnog at any party or gathering. Store this "eggnog" as you would any traditional eggnog. Refrigerate and stir well before serving if it has settled or separated at all.