Floating Island or Bird's Milk

Floating Island Dessert - Bird's Milk

In a world full of delights, the Floating Island dessert, also known as Bird's Milk, stands out as a sweet and elegant choice, perfect for any occasion. This light and airy dessert has captured the hearts of many, with its delicate meringue texture and fine vanilla cream. Preparing this dessert is an art, but with a few helpful tips, you will be able to create a result worthy of the most refined tables.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1.5 liters of milk
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 packet of vanilla sugar)
- 5 eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of flour or starch
- Almond flakes or chocolate flakes for decoration

Brief History

The Floating Island dessert has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a symbol of elegance and refinement. It is believed that this dessert originated in royal kitchens, where meringue and vanilla cream were served as an extravagant treat. Today, it is a favorite of many, often prepared for special occasions or holidays, bringing joy through its simplicity and delicacy.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients

Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure that the bowls are clean and free of grease, as the egg whites will not whip properly if they come into contact with fat.

Tip: Use room temperature eggs, as they whip better.

2. Boiling the milk

In a large pot, add 0.5 liters of milk and place it over medium heat. While waiting for it to boil, you can prepare the egg whites.

3. Whipping the egg whites

In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites until you achieve a stiff foam. Gradually add 5 tablespoons of sugar, one for each egg white, continuing to whip until you obtain a glossy meringue.

Trick: You can check if the meringue is ready by turning the bowl upside down; if it doesn’t move, you’ve succeeded!

4. Forming the “islands”

When the milk starts to boil, form small “dumplings” of meringue with a spoon and place them in the hot milk. Let them boil for 30 seconds on each side, then remove them with a spatula and place them in a bowl, being careful not to break them.

Frequently asked question: What do I do with the milk after boiling? You can choose to discard it, but you can also strain it and add it over the yolks for extra flavor.

5. Preparing the vanilla cream

In the same pot where you boiled the milk, add the remaining milk (1 liter) along with 3 tablespoons of sugar and the seeds from the vanilla pod (or vanilla sugar). Bring to a boil.

In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks with a bit of warm milk and flour or starch, then add the yolk mixture to the hot milk. Stir constantly until the cream thickens, having a soft cream consistency.

6. Assembling the dessert

In serving bowls, pour the vanilla cream, then carefully place the meringue “islands” on top.

Serving suggestion: You can decorate with caramel, almond flakes, or chocolate flakes, giving the dessert an elegant appearance and delicious flavor.

Possible variations

To add a personal touch, you can experiment with different flavors. For example, instead of vanilla, you can use almond or orange essence, and for decoration, you can try chopped nuts or fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries.

Nutritional benefits

This dessert contains milk, which is a good source of calcium and protein. Egg whites are rich in protein and low in fat, while vanilla provides an extra boost of antioxidants. However, it is important to consume this dessert in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

- Can it be made without sugar? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners, but the taste will vary.
- Can I substitute the milk with something else? Yes, you can use almond or coconut milk for a vegan option.
- How long does it keep? It is recommended to consume the dessert on the same day, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! The Floating Island is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will delight not only the taste buds but also the heart. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor every bite of this sweet masterpiece!