Balut is one of the strangest delicacies in the Philippines. It is a fertilised duck egg that has been incubated for approximately 18 days which results in the formation of a partially developed embryo within the shell.  It is kept warm prior to eating.  Eating it is simple, just crack a small portion at the bottom of the shell to sip the juice until dry, then slowly peel off the remaining shell to expose the unhatched baby duck and eat the contents in it entirely. You may choose to add salt and spicy vinegar to suit your taste bud. It has a strong aroma and a weird texture because of the presence of the beak, feet and feathers.  Despite its gross appearance, it has a flavourful taste that is very satisfying, that eating one is not enough.

Balut… an egg or a duck?

Ms Annalie Rola

Administration Dept, SCOP