Every country has a version of a Christmas beverage. This delicious Panamanian version of eggnog is perfect for the holiday season.
Growing up we really enjoyed eating Panamanian food. However, we were never really taught the way some people were taught in their families growing up. My mom or my tia’s would be in the kitchen cooking and we all just stayed out of the way. Having everyone together celebrating various occasions would be such a highlight for me. I think I really took for granted what these moments truly meant. As we got older, and my mom started working multiple jobs she wasn’t able to cook as much. I think one of my favorite things so far has been showing my mom that I’m still trying to honor our culture and traditions in my own family by learning how to make so many Panamanian dishes. So, I’m surprising my mom this year by making ron ponche Panameño. One of many popular Panamanian beverages.
What is Ron Ponche?
In Mexico they have Rompope, Puerto Rico has coquito, Peru has Algarrobina, the Dominican Republic has ponche crema, and Panama has ron ponche. It’s a creamy, custard like holiday beverage usually made during Christmas and Ano Nuevo (The New Year)
How do you make Ron Ponche?
The recipe for this Panamanian eggnog is usually made by stirring the ingredients slowly over a low heat. Cooking time is usually about 35-45 minutes and thats because you want to make sure it reaches its desired thickness. You cant leave the mixture unattended for even a minute because you risk it burning or forming lumps.
What liquor is used in Ron Ponche?
Not only is rum great for sipping on, but it really elevates so many cocktails. And while you can use any rum you like in this recipe, I opted to use a Panamanian rum, Ron Abuelo.
What ingredients are used in Ron Ponche?
There are so many different versions of this beverage. Evaporated milk is almost always used because of the shelf life. The number of cans and amount of eggs usually varies depending on personal preference and how much is being made. This recipe calls for: egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon stick, milk, Ron Abuelo (or any rum of your preference), ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cloves.
Why is eggnog a Christmas Drink?
Eggnog has been a holiday tradition for centuries. Due to its warm temperature and winter-appropriate flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bean, eggnog was particularly popular around Christmastime.
How long will this drink last?
Ron Ponche will usually last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
What are some other Panamanian dishes that are usually made during the holidays?
Some other favorite dishes that we enjoy around the holidays are Tamales, chicheme, Arroz con pollo, pernil, ensalada de toldo, empanadas (yup I have a recipe for that!), arroz con guandu (check out my recipe!) I honestly can go on and on!
But for now, please enjoy this Panamanian ron ponche recipe and let me know what you think!
Ron Ponche
Every country has a version of a Christmas beverage. This delicious Panamanian version of eggnog is perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 5 egg yolks
- 1 can of condensed milk
- 1 can of evaporated milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 cup milk
- 1 - 1.5 cups of Ron Abuelo (or any rum of your preference)
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (or to taste)
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract (or to taste)
- 1 clove (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl beat the yolks until a pale-yellow cream is formed, with an electric or hand mixer. (Beating the yolks first helps to make the drink creamier)
- In a saucepan add the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and regular milk. Mix well.
- Add the beaten egg yolks to the milk mixture and stir well, until a creamy mixture forms.
- Add the cinnamon stick, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cloves if using.
- Put to cook over low-medium heat and keep stirring constantly until it thickens. (Do not let the mixture boil) this process takes 35-40 minutes depending on the temperature of your stove.
- Turn off the heat and remove the pot from the heat.
- Let the drink cool and transfer to an airtight container. Cover, and refrigerate until chilled, at the very least 2 hours.
- When you are ready to serve, strain your drink before serving, and pour into a bowl or container with enough room to add in the alcohol.
- After straining add 1-1.5 cups of rum and mix or whisk to combine.
- Cooking at Serve and garnish with a little cinnamon or ground nutmeg, if desired.
Notes
Cooking at low heat is a MUST. It will take longer but is necessary.
It is very important not to leave the pot unattended at any time, to prevent from sticking or forming lumps.
If you prefer you can use a double boiler instead of cooking directly on the stove.
Ron Ponche will usually last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
Nutrition Information
Yield 4 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 262Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 265mgSodium 149mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 0gSugar 18gProtein 12g
This looks delicious! Can’t wait to try it!