Krampusnacht was celebrated in medieval Germany and is making a resurgence. Krampus is a mythical half-demon, half-goat (think evil Pan with fangs and claws) wearing a belt of cowbells and carrying a switch made of birch sticks for whipping naughty children. The name Krampus comes from the German word “krampen,” which means claw. It is the yin to St. Nicholas’ yang for the holiday season, who punishes and kidnaps the bad kids tonight, clearing the way for St. Nick to reward the remaining good children tomorrow night. At some point Krampus’ torture culture was euphemized into a lump of coal in the stocking. Some cities celebrate with parades, with people marching in Krampus costumes, and somewhere the real Krampus is likely marching along with them in plain view.
Music Du Jour: Krampus Counter Current
Films Du Jour:
- Krampus (2015)
- Krampus Film Collection
Miscellaneous:
- The Krampus story by com
- Ugly Krampus Sweater
- Goat legs
- Krampus Mask
Snacks du Jour: Some Krampusnacht inspirational dishes, basic baking, advanced baking
Cocktail Du Jour – Krampus Cocktail
This recipe comes from drinkmanila.com:
- 5 oz Islay Malt (Bowmore) scotch whisky
- 5 oz sweet vermouth
- Charcoal powder
Stir whisky and vermouth with ice until chilled. Strain into coupe glass. Sprinkle charcoal powder and stir until desired color is reached. Garnish with a cherry and some tiny twigs or pine needles.
Mocktail Du Jour – Krampus Mocktail
- 5 oz Escape Single Malt non alcoholic whiskey
- 5 oz Versin
- Charcoal powder
Stir liquids with ice until chilled. Strain into coupe glass. Sprinkle charcoal powder and stir until desired color is reached. Garnish with a cherry and some tiny twigs or pine needles.
Beer Du Jour
KRAMPUS Abbey Dubbel or any very dark beer
Wine Du Jour
Krampus Cranberry from Virginia Beach Winery or one of the Ferme Julien labels (Trader Joe’s)
Use freshly squeezed citrus in your cocktails and mocktails when called for – It makes such a difference! Here’s a reliable and inexpensive juicer.
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Photo credit: “Ghost Krampus” by Casey Hugelfink is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
