No, not the cartoon characters - the drink. It's Christmas time and people around the country are unpacking their Tom & Jerry punchbowl and mug sets. The drink is a mixture of rum and brandy with cinnamon, allspice and cloves mixed with egg and sugar. What tops off this lovely winter beverage of cheer is open to some debate. Many say hot water is the liquid of choice, but hot milk adds a nice creamy touch. Some have been known to use coffee as well when there is a desire to revel and frolic into the wee hours. Regardless of the beverage used to extend this winter favorite, a light dusting of fresh nutmeg is a must.
The origin of the Tom & Jerry is a bit of a mystery and some may become contentious, but most point to the early to mid 1800's. One story has it that Londoner Pierce Egan author of an 1821 night life guide introduced a version of eggnog to publicize his latest endeavor. Egan's book and the drink were so popular that London pubs were renamed Tom & Jerries for a time. Other's contend that British professor and author of a popular bartending guide, Jerry Thomas, invented the drink in the 1860's.
Whatever the origin, the drink has been enjoyed for years and often inspires parties planned around the foamy concoction. Often described as a "boozy milkshake", be sure to have the number of a reliable taxi service or plenty of extra pillows! These delicious cocktails have been known to sneak up on those who partake and pack quite a punch.
Antique bowls and mugs are making quite a comeback and form the centerpiece for many a Tom & Jerry Christmas party. Be sure to try the recipe below - just don't plan on driving anywhere soon! If you need some ideas for foods to go with your T&J's send us an email and we'll be happy to send along some suggestions.
1 oz. Dark Rum
1 oz. Brandy
1 egg
1 tsp. sugar
1 dash ea cinnamon, allspice, ground cloves (more may be added as desired)
6 oz. hot water, milk, or coffee
fresh nutmeg, grated, to taste
Separate egg in two bowls. Add Rum & Brandy to the yolk and beat together until frothy. In the other bowl beat the egg white until it peaks; add sugar and spices; beat until stiff. Fold into the liquor mixture. Pour into a coffee mug and top with the water, milk or coffee. Dust with fresh, grated nutmeg.
For a Tom & Jerry punchbowl full:
1 cup Dark Rum
1 bottle (750 ml) Brandy
6 eggs
2 cups sugar
1/4 tsp ea cinnamon, allspice, ground cloves (as desired)
4 cups hot water, milk, or coffee
fresh nutmeg, as needed
Follow same procedure as above.
Enjoy and Merry Christmas!
