Bitter melon, or ku gua, might sound intimidating, but this intensely flavorful Asian vegetable is packed with nutrients and surprisingly versatile. Its slightly bitter taste, which mellows beautifully when cooked, is balanced perfectly in this delightful steamed dish featuring succulent pork and plump shrimp. This recipe offers a healthy and flavorful alternative to heavier stir-fries, showcasing the bright, slightly tangy notes of bitter melon in a light yet satisfying way. The combination of meat and seafood adds depth and richness, making it a complete and delicious meal.
Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that's as healthy as it is tasty! This simple yet elegant dish requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Ready to experience the magic of steamed bitter melon? Let's dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- knife
- cutting board
- steamer
- pan
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the bitter melon open and remove the seeds.
- Dice the pork shoulder (slightly fatty) and shrimp into small pieces.
- Season the pork and shrimp mixture with salt, sugar, black pepper, oyster sauce, black bean sauce, garlic, cornstarch, sesame oil, and green onions.
- Add 2 beaten eggs to the pork and shrimp mixture and mix well.
Step 2. Stuff and Steam the Bitter Melon
- Lightly sprinkle cornstarch inside the bitter melon halves.
- Fill the bitter melon halves with the seasoned pork and shrimp mixture.
- Steam the stuffed bitter melon for 25 minutes.
- Remove the steamed bitter melon from the steamer and place it on a plate.
Step 3. Make the Sauce
- Combine the bitter melon juice with a little garlic, a small amount of salt, and a water-cornstarch mixture to thicken.
Step 4. Serve
- Pour the sauce over the steamed bitter melon.
- Garnish with green onions.
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- Choose bitter melons of the right size depending on the portion you want to make. They are easily grown at home or can be bought at Asian supermarkets.
- Use slightly fatty pork shoulder for better flavor.
- Make a little extra filling to avoid running out.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork and shrimp?
Yes! Feel free to use chicken, beef, or tofu instead of pork, and you can omit the shrimp or substitute with another seafood like scallops or squid.
2. How can I reduce the bitterness of the bitter melon?
Salting the sliced bitter melon for 15-20 minutes before cooking helps draw out some of the bitterness. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly afterwards.
3. What can I serve this dish with?
Steamed bitter melon with pork and shrimp pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light noodle dish. It also makes a great side dish to complement other Asian-inspired meals.
This recipe for steamed bitter melon with pork and shrimp offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this often-overlooked superfood. The simple preparation allows the natural flavors to shine, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Enjoy the refreshing taste and numerous health benefits of this vibrant and flavorful dish!