What is Bird’s Nest Soup?
Bird’s nest soup is a delicacy in Thailand. The key ingredient of this dish is the small, white nest of the swiftlet. This tiny bird makes its nest with its thick saliva, which dries and becomes a home for baby swiftlets. When they grow up and become too large for their nests, the nest is of no use to the swiftlets anymore, and that is when Thai people swoop in, collecting these nests which are oftentimes referred to as white gold. The dish can be served both hot and cold. Good bird’s nest soup should be made without the use of any chemicals, and it apparently promotes good health and a long life.
Chinatown in Bangkok is where the majority of bird’s nest soup will be found in the city. This is because the dish is very popular amongst Chinese people as it is also considered a delicacy in China. Those who practice Chinese medicine claim that in addition to a long life, this particular dish helps boost the immune system and improve skin. It is one of the most expensive dishes in the world, and many visitors of Chinatown in Bangkok are willing to spend the big bucks to devour this novelty meal.
Nam Sing, a popular restaurant located on Yaowarat Road in Chinatown, is one eatery where visitors will be able to find this rare cuisine. In addition to bird’s nest soup, visitors will also find dishes like shark fin soup, oyster omelets and other Chinese dishes on the menu. The price for this soup starts at ฿200 (about $5) and can go all the way up to ฿1,000 (about $28).