Balut, or duck embryo eggs, are a delicacy enjoyed by many in Vietnam due to their flavorful taste and high nutritional value. There is also a folk belief that consuming balut at the end of the year brings good luck and wards off bad luck. Let’s explore this intriguing tradition further.
1 Does Eating Balut at the End of the Year Ward Off Bad Luck?
Eating balut at the end of the year to ward off bad luck
Balut is a common dish in Vietnam, easily found and affordable. The belief that eating balut at the end of the year will bring good luck stems from the spiritual and folk concepts of the Vietnamese people over generations. The word “balut” itself, with its association to the word “upside down,” is thought to symbolize the reversal of bad luck into good fortune.
Additionally, balut is often consumed during the Tet holiday, leading many families to incorporate it into their end-of-year traditions, hoping to leave any bad luck behind.
2 How to Quickly Choose Between Young and Old Balut Eggs
Selecting Young Balut Eggs
Hold the egg close to your ear and gently shake it
To choose young balut eggs, simply hold the egg close to your ear and gently shake it. If you don’t hear any water or movement inside, it’s a young egg. If you hear a sloshing sound, the egg is older.
Another method is to hold the egg in your hand and feel its weight. A young egg will feel heavy and firm, while an older egg will be lighter and the shell may not feel as sturdy.
Selecting Old Balut Eggs
Examine the egg under bright light
To choose older balut eggs, you can do the opposite of selecting young eggs, or you can examine the egg under bright light. Older eggs will have a wider air cell, while younger eggs will have a smaller or no air cell.
Additionally, you can visually inspect the shell. A young egg will have a rougher, more textured shell, while an older egg will be smoother and appear softer.
So, there you have it! Now you know about the folk belief and have learned some handy tips for choosing balut eggs according to your preference. Enjoy this delicious and auspicious treat!
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