Balut is a fertilised bird egg, usually a duck egg, that is incubated, steamed and eaten from the shell.

  • The egg is incubated for 14-21 days, depending on the culture. Balut is a popular delicacy and street food in Southeast Asia, especially the Philippines, Vietnam, and Laos.
  • The perfect balut is incubated for 17–18 days. At this point, the embryo is still wrapped in a whitish covering and has not yet fully developed. Balut that is incubated for longer has a well-developed embryo where the features of the duckling are recognisable.
  • Balut is eaten straight from the shell. The liquid inside the egg is often described as tasting like a richer chicken broth.
  • Balut is considered to be nutritious and contains vitamin C, beta carotene, niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine. It is usually served with beer.
  • The name “balut” comes from the traditional way it was prepared, where the egg was wrapped in bags during incubation.
  • Some people believe that enjoying unusual foods depends on your mindset as taste is subjective. Others believe that food is a large part of culture, and you don’t have to like everything, but you can be respectful.
← Previous
Next →