Legend has it that egg nog originated in England where it consisted of a mix of milk, eggs and either brandy, Madeira or sherry. It wasn't until it was brought over the the United States that it started to get mixed with bourbon, a reaction to other liquor's scarcity during the American Revolutionary War. This vegan Cashew Egg Nog recipe is super easy to make and doesn't actually contain eggs. It's just a great 'nog to put a splash of bourbon or rum into. It's even good on it's own. Using the arrowroot powder or tapioca flour is important to achieve the creamy texture and emulsify the fats with the rest of the liquids. Perfect for a lazy evening next to a crackling fire space heater.

2 1/3 cups water
¾ cup raw, unsalted cashews, rinsed
½ cup sugar
¼ teaspoon arrowroot powder or tapioca flour

2 Tablespoons canola oil
1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
¾ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1)
In a medium saucepan, add the water, cashews, sugar and arrowroot powder or tapioca flour. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer covered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2)
Transfer the mixture to a blender and add the canola oil, apple cider vinegar, nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla extract. Blend on the whip setting for 1 ½ minutes. Place a towel on top of the blender and hold it down so you're shielded from any hot liquid that may splash up when you start the blender.

3)
Transfer the Egg Nog to a covered container and let it cool in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Makes about 3 cups of Vegan Egg Nog.