You can make a classic double-boiled bird's nest with no added sugar by sweetening it with monk fruit instead of rock sugar. Monk fruit is a zero-calorie, zero-sugar sweetener with a glycemic index of zero, so it adds sweetness without any sugar. Here is the simple method, with Ten Lei Yen's soak-and-cook timings.
- Swap rock sugar for monk fruit to make a no-added-sugar bird's nest.
- Monk fruit is a zero-sugar, zero-calorie sweetener (glycemic index 0), so it sweetens without sugar.
- Soak one dried nest (about 8-14 g) for 4-6 hours or overnight, then double-boil for 40 minutes.
- Monk fruit is much sweeter than sugar - start with a little and add to taste.
- A simple choice for anyone cutting back on sugar.
What you'll need
- 1 dried edible bird's nest (about 8-14 g)
- About 240 ml water
- Monk fruit sweetener, to taste (start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon)
- Optional: a few goji berries or a slice of ginseng for aroma (skip red dates and dried fruit if you want it lowest in sugar - they add natural sugars)
How to make it
- Soak. Place the dried nest in room-temperature water and soak 4-6 hours or overnight, until it opens into soft strands. Drain and rinse gently.
- Double-boil. Put the drained nest in a heatproof bowl with fresh water, cover, and steam it in a covered pot or double boiler over gently simmering water for about 40 minutes, until tender and translucent.
- Sweeten with monk fruit. Unlike rock sugar, monk fruit does not need to melt in - stir it in during the last minute or two, or after cooking, a little at a time, tasting as you go. It is much sweeter than sugar, so start small.
- Serve. Enjoy warm, or chill it for a cool no-added-sugar dessert.
Tips
- Pure monk fruit is intensely sweet; a small pinch may be enough, so add it gradually.
- Many products labeled monk fruit are blended with erythritol - if you want pure monk fruit, check the label.
- Prefer no sweetener at all? Bird's nest has a delicate flavor and is lovely plain, or with a splash of unsweetened coconut water.
- For the classic version and other ideas, see our ginseng double-boil and milk bird's nest; prep in soak and clean.
Shop whole nest in Blue Label, 5A and Specialty Nest.
FAQ
Is this bird's nest sugar-free?
It has no added sugar when you sweeten with monk fruit alone. If you add red dates, longan or dried fruit, those bring their own natural sugars.
How much monk fruit should I use?
Start with about half a teaspoon and add to taste. Pure monk fruit is much sweeter than sugar, so a little goes a long way.
Does monk fruit change the texture?
No. It sweetens without affecting the soft, translucent strands of the nest.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Cook it, let it cool, and refrigerate for 2-3 days; sweeten to taste when you serve, warm or chilled.
