Bird's milk

The dessert known as 'bird's milk' is an easy-to-make delicacy with a refined taste that will impress your family and friends. This recipe, deeply rooted in culinary tradition, combines the fluffy texture of the 'dumplings' made from egg whites with a fine vanilla cream, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your senses. Each bite will take you on an unforgettable journey, reminding you of the pleasant moments spent with loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of milk
- 5 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 vanilla essence

Preparing this dessert is simple, but it requires a little attention to achieve a perfect result. Here are the detailed steps you need to follow:

1. Preparing the milk:
In a pot, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from burning on the bottom. It is important to use quality milk, as its flavor will directly influence the final taste of the dessert. Whole milk is ideal, but you can also use semi-skimmed milk if you prefer.

2. Preparing the egg whites:
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the egg whites with 2 tablespoons of sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk. Beat until you achieve a firm, glossy foam that holds its shape. This step is essential, as the beaten egg whites will become fluffy 'dumplings' that will sink into the milk.

3. Forming the dumplings:
Once the milk starts to boil, use a spoon to scoop portions of the egg white foam and add them to the milk. You can form dumplings the size of a walnut and gently turn them to cook evenly, allowing them to boil for about a minute. They will puff up and acquire an airy texture.

4. Finishing the cream:
After all the dumplings are ready, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl. Now, in the remaining milk, add the yolks mixed with 5 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla essence. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and to achieve a smooth cream. Cook the mixture over low heat for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Assembling the dessert:
Once the cream is ready, gently pour it over the egg white dumplings, being careful not to crush them. Allow the dessert to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed both warm and cold, depending on your preferences.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before using them; this will help achieve a firmer foam.
- You can add a little lemon juice to the egg whites to strengthen them even more.
- If you wish, you can experiment with flavors by adding cocoa to the yolk cream for a chocolate dessert or cinnamon for an extra warm note.

Nutritional values (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 6 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use lactose-free milk?
Yes, lactose-free milk is an excellent option for making this recipe.

2. What can I use instead of sugar?
You can try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be careful to adjust the quantities to achieve the desired sweetness.

3. How do I store the bird's milk?
This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

4. What can I serve with bird's milk?
This delicious dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or flavored tea. You can also add fresh fruits on top for a contrast of flavors and textures.

In conclusion, 'bird's milk' is an elegant, easy-to-make dessert that will bring a smile to the faces of everyone who tastes it. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat your family, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy!