WHAT IS BIRD’S NEST?

Bird’s nest is a true marvel of nature – a rare and precious gift that has been treasured in Chinese cuisine for centuries. Made by small birds who craft their intricate nests using strands of their own saliva, this ingredient is a true testament to the wonders of the natural world. And not only is it a delicacy for the senses, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition and healing properties. From promoting healthy skin to supporting respiratory health and boosting the immune system, bird’s nest is truly a superfood like no other.

INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTES

Ingredient quantities please refer to the recipes card (Click here!)!

• Bird’s Nest – Bird’s Nest is a delicacy made from the nests of swiftlets, a type of bird found in Southeast Asia. The nests are made of solidified saliva and are believed to have various health benefits, including improving skin health, boosting the immune system, and promoting digestion. Bird’s Nest can be eaten raw or cooked and is commonly used in soups, stews, and desserts.
• Pandan leaves – the fragrant leaves with a sweet, nutty aroma used in Southeast Asian cuisine for both sweet and savory dishes. You can skip this if you can’t find it.
• Wolfberry – Wolfberry, also known as goji berry, is a small red fruit that is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is believed to improve eye health, boost the immune system, and protect against cancer and other diseases. Wolfberry can be eaten raw, dried, or cooked and is commonly used in soups, stews, and tea.
• Ginseng – Ginseng is a root plant that is highly valued for its medicinal properties. It is believed to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and increase energy levels. Ginseng is available in various forms, including fresh, dried, and powdered, and can be added to food, tea, or supplements.
• Lump sugar  – a type of sugar that comes in solid chunks or lumps, rather than in granulated form. It is often used in specialty drinks such as tea, coffee, and cocktails, as well as in baking and cooking. You can substitute it with rock sugar or even granulated sugar, which is more commonly used and easier to find. However, it dissolves faster and does not provide the same aromatic as lump sugar in certain beverages.

RECIPES TIPS

• Soaking and Preparing the Bird’s Nest: Start by soaking the bird’s nest in water until it becomes soft and expands. This may take several hours or overnight. After soaking, carefully clean the bird’s nest by removing any impurities, feathers, or dirt. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water.
• Choice of Ginseng: You can use either dried ginseng slices or whole ginseng roots in your soup. Adjust the quantity to your preference and taste. Ginseng has a slightly bitter taste, so some people prefer a milder flavor.
• Dried Wolfberries: Dried wolfberries, also known as goji berries, are added for their sweet and slightly tart flavor. They complement the soup’s overall taste and provide a burst of color. Rinse the dried wolfberries before adding them to the soup to remove any impurities.
• Optional Ingredients: Some variations of this soup include the addition of other ingredients like jujubes (Chinese red dates) or dried scallops for added complexity of flavor.
• Health Benefits: – Keep in mind that ginseng, wolfberries, and bird’s nest are believed to offer various health benefits, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your diet, especially if you have any health concerns or are taking medications.

MADE AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS

1. Soaking: Bird’s nest needs to be soaked for several hours or overnight to soften it before cooking. You can soak the bird’s nest in water in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, as long as you change the water every day. If you want to keep bird’s nest for longer, you can freeze it. First, soak the bird’s nest in water until it softens, then drain and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
2. Cooking: If you want to cook bird’s nest in advance, you can do so and store it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. You may have it as chilled or reheat it gently before serving.
3. Desserts: If you’re making desserts with bird’s nest, you can prepare the custard or sweet soup base in advance and add the bird’s nest just before serving. This will ensure that the bird’s nest retains its texture and doesn’t become too soft or mushy.

STORAGE & REHEATING

Remember to always store bird’s nest properly in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage or contamination. And when reheating or adding bird’s nest to dishes, be gentle to preserve its delicate texture.

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. You may have it as chilled or reheat it gently before serving. If you want to keep bird’s nest for longer, you can freeze it up to 3 months. Thaw it or gently heat it up before serving.

RECIPES FAQS

What is the best way to prepare bird’s nest for cooking?

The best way to prepare bird’s nest for cooking is to soak it in water until it softens. You can soak it overnight or for several hours before cooking.

Can bird’s nest be eaten raw?

No, bird’s nest should never be eaten raw. It must be cooked before consumption to ensure that any bacteria or impurities are eliminated.

Are there any side effects to consuming ginseng, wolfberry, or bird’s nest?

While ginseng, wolfberry, and bird’s nest are generally safe for consumption, they may cause side effects in some people. For example, ginseng may cause headaches, dizziness, or digestive issues in some people. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional before consuming these ingredients if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication.

Where can I buy bird’s nest?

Bird’s nest can be found in Asian grocery stores or online retailers. Make sure to buy high-quality bird’s nest from a reputable source.

Can I use an alternative sweetener instead of lump sugar in these recipes?

Yes, you can use other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead of lump sugar in these recipes. Keep in mind that the sweetness and texture may be slightly different.

Can I adjust the portion size of the recipes?

You can adjust the recipe by clicking the serving size in the recipe in recipes card to your liking!
If you can find the exact portion that you like, you can, also, adjust this in manual mode. Make sure that the cooking times and temperatures have been adjusted for different quantities of ingredients. Even preparation time (such as for cutting) may be different than in the original recipe. Please do not pass the max line indicated inside of the mixing bowl. The capacity of the mixing bowl is 2.2 liters.

This recipes is compatible with which model of Thermomix®?

This recipes suitable for TM31 / TM5 / TM6

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