In a large saucepan, combine the milk, 1/2 cup of the sugar, and
vanilla bean and seeds, and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from the
heat.
In a medium bowl, beat the yolks until pale yellow and thick, 2 to 3
minutes. Slowly pour in 1 cup of the hot milk, whisking constantly.
Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the hot milk,
whisking. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heavy
wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a
spoon, about 5 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a
clean container. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing down against the
surface to keep a skin from forming. Refrigerate until well chilled, at
least 4 hours or overnight.
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft
peaks start to form. Slowly add 1/4 cup of the sugar and beat until
stiff peaks form.
In a large bowl with clean beaters, beat the cream until thick and
frothy. Add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat to soft peaks.
In a large punch bowl, combine the chilled egg yolk mixture and the
bourbon and brandy. Fold in the sweetened whipped cream, then the egg
whites. Refrigerate until chilled, 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Sprinkle nutmeg over the top and garnish with chocolate shavings. Serve chilled.
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