Wednesday December 20, 2023.

Rompope: Celebrating Tradition in Costa Rican Christmas Festivities 

Rompope, a beloved style of eggnog across Latin America, holds a traditional place on the holiday table, typically served during Christmas and to ring in the New Year. This rich and creamy version of eggnog is made with egg yolk, milk, and vanilla flavoring, lending the beverage a soft yellow hue. It undergoes a flavorful transformation with the addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, plus a generous splash of dark rum, making it a festive holiday treat. It is often garnished with a sprinkle of grated coconut or a dusting of nutmeg on top. 

The term "rompope" originates from the Spanish word "rompon," which refers to the Spanish rendition of eggnog introduced to Mexico. The Spanish version incorporates rum as its primary ingredient, forming the basis for both "rom-pon" and "rom-pope." This classic beverage is recognized by this name in various Central American countries and in Mexico, where it is believed to have originated. 

How to Make Rompope 

How to Make Rompope 

3 large egg yolks 

1/2 cup granulated sugar 

24 oz evaporated milk (or sub for coconut milk) 

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 

3 whole cloves 

1 tablespoon rum extract 

8 oz dark rum 

Use a whisk and stir the egg yolks together with the sugar in a sturdy, medium-sized saucepan. Add the evaporated milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cook the mixture over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring constantly, until it reaches 160°F (without boiling) and thickens enough to coat the back of a metal spoon with a thin layer. Remove the saucepan from the heat. 

Refrigerate the eggnog covered until it is chilled, approximately three hours. Remove the cloves and stir in the rum. Pour the mixture into a glass bottle or pitcher with a lid and store for up to seven days refrigerated. 

Where to Find Rompope

If you are in Las Catalinas and craving rompope, head over to Coquelicot, the town's Belgian waffle and artisan ice cream shop, where they offer delightful rompope-flavored ice cream, a perfect treat for the holiday season. Additionally, you can find rompope for sale in most supermarkets throughout the month of December.