Balot: How to Cook and Eat This Exotic Egg Dish

Balot: A Filipino Delicacy That Will Challenge Your Taste Buds

If you are looking for a unique and adventurous food experience, you might want to try balot, a Filipino delicacy that is made from fertilized duck eggs. Balot is not for the faint of heart, as it contains a partially developed duck embryo that you have to eat along with the yolk and the white. But if you are brave enough to try it, you might be surprised by its rich flavor and texture, as well as its nutritional value and health benefits.

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What is balot and how is it made?

The origin and meaning of balot

Balot (also spelled as balut) is derived from the Filipino word for "wrapped" or "coated", as the duck embryo is wrapped in the eggshell. Balot was introduced to the Philippines by the Chinese traders in the 16th or 19th century, and since then, it has become a traditional part of the Filipino cuisine. Balot is considered a delicacy, a street food, a snack, a comfort food, and even an aphrodisiac by many Filipinos.

The process of making balot

Balot is made by incubating fertilized duck eggs for a period of 14 to 21 days, depending on the preference of the producer and the consumer. The eggs are kept in baskets surrounded by warm rice husks or sand, and are regularly turned to ensure even development. After the incubation period, the eggs are boiled or steamed for about 20 minutes, and then sold by street vendors or in stores and markets. Balot can be eaten hot or cold, depending on one's preference.

The nutritional value and health benefits of balot

Balot is a good source of protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamin A. It is also low in carbohydrates and fat. Balot is believed to have several health benefits, such as improving stamina, enhancing libido, boosting immunity, strengthening bones and muscles, and preventing anemia. However, balot also has some drawbacks, such as being high in cholesterol, sodium, and uric acid. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation and with caution by people with certain health conditions.

How to eat balot and what does it taste like?

The steps to eat balot

Eating balot can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are the steps to eat balot:

• Crack open the top part of the eggshell with a spoon or your teeth.

• Peel off a small portion of the shell to reveal a hole.

• Sip the broth or soup inside the egg. This is called "sabaw" in Filipino.

• Peel off more of the shell to expose the yolk and the embryo.

• Sprinkle some salt or vinegar on the yolk and embryo.

• Eat the yolk and embryo in one bite or in small pieces.

• You can also eat the white part of the egg if you like. This is called "bato" in Filipino.

• Discard the shell and enjoy!

The taste and texture of balot

The taste and texture of balot. The taste and texture of balot may vary depending on the age of the embryo and the way it is cooked. Generally, balot has a savory, salty, and slightly gamey flavor, similar to chicken or duck meat. The broth or soup inside the egg has a mild and slightly sweet taste, similar to chicken soup. The yolk is creamy and rich, while the embryo is tender and chewy. The white part of the egg is hard and rubbery, and some people prefer not to eat it.

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The common condiments and accompaniments for balot

Balot can be eaten plain or with various condiments and accompaniments to enhance its flavor and texture. Some of the common ones are:

• Salt or rock salt: This adds a simple but effective seasoning to balot.

• Vinegar: This adds a sour and tangy taste to balot. Some people like to add garlic, onion, chili, or pepper to their vinegar for extra flavor.

• Soy sauce: This adds a salty and savory taste to balot. Some people like to add calamansi (a type of citrus) juice, sugar, or ginger to their soy sauce for extra flavor.

• Rice: This is a staple food in the Philippines and can be eaten with balot as a filling meal.

• Bread: This can be used to dip into the broth or soup of balot or to make a sandwich with the yolk and embryo.

• Beer: This is a popular drink to pair with balot, especially at night or during social gatherings. Beer can help wash down the taste of balot and also provide a refreshing contrast.

Where to find balot and when to eat it?

The availability and popularity of balot in the Philippines and other countries

Balot is widely available and popular in the Philippines, especially in urban areas where street vendors sell it at night or in the early morning. Balot can also be found in some restaurants, markets, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Balot is also consumed in other Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Indonesia, where it has different names and variations. Balot has also been introduced to some Western countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, where it has been featured in some TV shows, documentaries, and food festivals.

The best time and place to eat balot

Balot can be eaten at any time of the day, but it is most commonly eaten at night or in the early morning as a snack or a breakfast. Balot can be eaten anywhere, but it is best enjoyed outdoors where you can feel the breeze and hear the sounds of the night or the morning. Some of the best places to eat balot are:

PlaceDescription

Street cornerThis is where you can find most of the street vendors selling balot. You can buy one or more eggs from them and eat them on the spot or take them home.

ParkThis is where you can enjoy balot with nature. You can bring your own eggs or buy them from nearby vendors and eat them on a bench or a picnic table.

BarThis is where you can enjoy balot with friends. You can order balot from the menu or bring your own eggs and eat them with beer or other drinks.

HomeThis is where you can enjoy balot with comfort. You can buy eggs from the store or make your own balot and eat them with your family or by yourself.

The cultural significance and controversies of balot

Balot is more than just a food item; it is also a part of the Filipino culture and identity. Balot represents the Filipino values of resilience, resourcefulness, creativity, and hospitality. Balot also symbolizes the Filipino love for life, as eating balot is believed to give life force and vitality. Balot is often shared among friends, family, neighbors, and strangers as a gesture of friendship, generosity, and camaraderie.

However, balot also has its share of controversies and criticisms. Balot is considered by some people as an unethical and cruel food item, as it involves killing an unborn duck that could have been alive. Balot is also considered by some people as an unhygienic and unsafe food item, as it may contain bacteria, parasites, or toxins that could cause illness or infection. Balot is also considered by some people as an unappealing and disgusting food item, as it may have a foul smell, a slimy texture, or a grotesque appearance. Balot is also considered by some people as a taboo or a sin, as it may violate their religious or moral beliefs.

Conclusion

Balot is a Filipino delicacy that is made from fertilized duck eggs that contain a partially developed duck embryo. Balot is a food item that can challenge your taste buds, as well as your courage and curiosity. Balot has a rich flavor and texture, as well as a high nutritional value and health benefits. Balot can be eaten in different ways, with different condiments and accompaniments, and in different places and times. Balot is also a cultural symbol and a source of pride for many Filipinos, but it also faces some controversies and criticisms from others. Balot is not for everyone, but if you are willing to try it, you might discover a new and exciting food experience.

FAQs

What is the difference between balot and penoy?

Penoy is another type of boiled duck egg that is similar to balot, but it does not contain an embryo. Penoy is made from unfertilized duck eggs or fertilized duck eggs that have failed to develop an embryo. Penoy has a smoother and softer texture than balot, and it has a milder and less gamey flavor.

Is balot safe for pregnant women?

Balot is generally safe for pregnant women, as long as it is cooked properly and eaten in moderation. Balot can provide protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin A for pregnant women and their babies. However, balot can also pose some risks, such as allergic reactions, bacterial infections, or high cholesterol levels. Therefore, pregnant women should consult their doctors before eating balot.

How many calories are in one balot?

One balot (about 50 grams) has about 188 calories, according to the Philippine Food Composition Tables. Of these calories, 117 come from fat, 60 come from protein, and 11 come from carbohydrates.

Can you cook balot in other ways besides boiling or steaming?

Yes, you can cook balot in other ways besides boiling or steaming. Some of the alternative ways are frying, baking, grilling, or roasting. You can also add balot to other dishes, such as soups, salads, noodles, or rice.

Can you eat more than one balot at a time?

Yes, you can eat more than one balot at a time, depending on your appetite and tolerance. Some people can eat up to five or six balots in one sitting, while others can only eat one or none at all. However, eating too many balots can cause indigestion, nausea, or gout. Therefore, it is advisable to eat balot in moderation and with plenty of water. 44f88ac181