Bird’s nest should be soaked for 4 to 6 hours in room temperature water until it fully expands and softens. For thicker nests, soaking overnight is ideal. After soaking, rinse gently to remove any impurities.
For cooking, use a double boiler and steam for 30 to 45 minutes on low heat. Overheating or boiling directly can destroy its delicate proteins and nutrients. To enhance taste and benefits, cook with rock sugar, red dates, or milk. Proper preparation ensures maximum absorption of its rich nutrients for skin, immunity, and overall health.
To achieve the best texture, ensure the bird’s nest is cooked until it reaches a soft, gelatinous consistency without becoming too watery. If it dissolves too quickly, the heat may be too high. Storing any leftover cooked bird’s nest in the refrigerator for up to a week allows for easy consumption while preserving its nutritional value.