Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd, is a unique vegetable with a distinctive, intensely bitter flavor that many either adore or avoid. But don't let its name fool you; when prepared correctly, bitter melon can be a surprisingly delicious and healthy addition to your diet. This simple stir-fry recipe tames the bitterness while highlighting the vegetable's subtly sweet notes, all thanks to the aromatic power of garlic. It's a quick and easy weeknight meal, perfect for those seeking a flavorful and nutritious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe focuses on achieving the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness, creating a stir-fry that is both satisfying and refreshing. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the bitter melon to achieving the ideal level of crisp-tenderness. Ready to unlock the delicious potential of bitter melon? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Measuring spoon
- Garlic press
- Scissors
- Wok
Ingredients
- Bitter Melon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Red Dried Chilies
- Fresh Red Chilies: a few
- Garlic: 5 cloves
- Sichuan Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Oil: 1-2 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Bitter Melon
- Discard the ends of the bitter melon, cut it in half, then quarter it. Use a rounded measuring spoon to scrape out the white spongy inside part, as this is the most bitter.
- Cut the cleaned bitter melon into 1/3-inch thick slices at a 45-degree angle. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and rub for 1-2 minutes to draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the salted bitter melon. Rinse the bitter melon several times with cold running water to make it crunchy again and drain.
Step 2. Prepare the Aromatics
- Prepare the red dried chilies by cutting them open with scissors and removing the seeds. Roughly dice the fresh red chilies. Press the garlic cloves using a garlic press.
Step 3. Stir-fry the Bitter Melon
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the wok along with the Sichuan peppercorns (if using). Turn the heat to low. Once the peppercorns darken, remove and discard them. Increase heat to medium.
- Add the bitter melon, fresh chilies, dried chilies, and garlic to the wok. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes. Taste and add salt to adjust the flavor (a little less than a teaspoon is recommended).
Step 4. Serve
- Give it a final stir and serve as a side dish. Enjoy!
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- If you leave the bitter melon to grow until the seeds are ripe, the spongy part will turn bright red and become tender, tasting sweet like a fruit.
- Be generous with salt, especially if it's your first time trying bitter melon, as it helps suppress the bitterness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 100-150
- Fat: 2-4g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of garlic?
Yes! While regular garlic is used in this recipe, you can substitute with garlic powder (adjust amount to taste) or even scallions for a slightly different flavor profile.
2. How can I reduce the bitterness of the bitter melon?
Salting the sliced bitter melon and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes helps draw out some of the bitterness before stir-frying. Rinsing well afterward is crucial.
3. What can I serve this dish with?
This stir-fry pairs well with steamed rice, noodles (like rice noodles or egg noodles), or even as a side dish alongside other Asian-inspired dishes.
This simple stir-fried bitter melon recipe is a testament to how a few readily available ingredients can create a surprisingly delicious and healthy meal. The balance of bitterness and garlic’s savory punch makes it a satisfying and unique addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish!